At Brightview Senior Living, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our residents—both in the real world and online. In honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October, we’re sharing some essential tips to help you stay safe online. Protect yourself from common and current scams targeting seniors with our tips below.
Common Scams Targeting Seniors
Seniors are often seen as prime targets for online scams. These schemes may come in various forms, from email and phone scams to fraudulent websites. Knowing the most common types of scams can help you spot the warning signs before it's too late.
- Medicare and Healthcare Scams - One of the most prevalent scams involves fraudulent calls or emails claiming to be from Medicare or health insurance companies. Scammers may ask for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or other personal information. Tip: Always verify any unsolicited contact by calling the organization directly using an official number.
- Tech Support Scams - Tech support scams involve fake alerts warning that your computer has a virus. Scammers will ask you to allow them remote access to your device to "fix" the problem. They may then steal personal data or charge you for unnecessary services. Tip: Never give control of your computer to someone you don’t know.
- Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams - You may receive an email or call saying you’ve won a prize, but you’ll need to pay a fee or provide bank details to claim it. Tip: Legitimate lotteries and sweepstakes never ask for upfront payments.
- Grandparent Scam - This scam involves a scammer pretending to be a distressed grandchild in need of money for an emergency. They will ask you to wire funds quickly, often without giving you time to think. Tip: Always verify the identity of the caller by asking questions only your grandchild would know or contact other family members before sending money.
Phishing: Recognizing Red Flags
Phishing is a common tactic where scammers send fake emails or text messages, often pretending to be from reputable organizations. These messages usually include a link designed to steal your personal information or infect your device with malware. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Suspicious Email Addresses - Always check the sender’s email address. If it’s from a domain that doesn’t match the organization (e.g., instead of @bank.com, it’s from @securemail123.com), that’s a red flag.
- Urgent or Threatening Language - Phishing emails often use urgency to get you to act quickly. They may claim that your account will be deactivated or hacked if you don’t take immediate action. Tip: Always pause and verify the request by contacting the company directly.
- Poor Grammar and Spelling - Many phishing emails contain grammatical errors or awkward phrasing that can tip you off. A professional organization won’t send poorly written emails.
- Unfamiliar Links or Attachments - Be cautious of any unsolicited email that includes links or attachments. Scammers may disguise malicious files or websites to steal your information. Tip: Hover over links to see where they lead before clicking.
Protect Yourself Online
Here are some additional tips to keep your personal information secure:
- Use Strong Passwords - Create strong, unique passwords for your accounts. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name or birthdate. Consider using a password manager to help keep track of them.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication - Where possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a text message code, in addition to your password.
- Be Cautious on Social Media - Be mindful of what you share on social media. Scammers can use information like your location, interests, or family members to craft convincing scams. Tip: Adjust your privacy settings to control who can see your posts and personal details.
- Keep Your Software Up to Date - Ensure that your computer, phone, and any other devices are running the latest software updates. These updates often include important security patches that protect you from new threats.
When in Doubt, Ask for Help
If you ever feel unsure about an email, phone call, or online message, don’t hesitate to ask a trusted family member, friend, or even the Brightview team for advice. Taking a moment to verify the legitimacy of a request could save you from a costly mistake.
Brightview Senior Living builds, owns, and operates award-winning vibrant senior living communities in eight states along the East Coast: Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Virginia. We offer senior Independent Living, Assisted Living, Enhanced Care, and Wellspring Village™, a specialized neighborhood for people living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Schedule a personal visit to experience our communities firsthand.
