Scammers target people of all ages and backgrounds, and many sound convincing and professional. Following a few scam prevention tips for seniors can help block these attempts before anyone needs to respond. Simple settings on a phone and bank account can provide added protection.

The account holder stays fully in charge of the money and the decisions. Senior Helpers Northern Bronx walks through the safeguards that are worth setting up.

Turn On Bank and Card Alerts

Many banks offer text or email alerts. Depending on the bank, you may be able to set them for:

• Large withdrawals
• Purchases over an amount you choose
• Changes to the account

Alerts go to the account holder, which keeps control with them. They can call the bank themselves if something looks wrong. 

If they’d like someone to help monitor their accounts, ask the bank about options for a trusted family member. These may include shared account alerts or view-only access.

Banks differ, so inquire with your branch or look through the settings in the bank’s app. Write down which alerts you turned on, so you can review them later.

Block Unwanted Calls and Texts

As part of scam prevention tips for seniors, blocking unwanted calls and texts can help reduce exposure to fraudulent messages. Most smartphones have settings that silence calls from unknown numbers or send them to voicemail.

Many carriers also offer spam filters to help block unwanted calls. Landlines may need a call-blocking device or a service from the phone company.

The National Do Not Call Registry is worth joining, but its reach is limited. It reduces legitimate telemarketing calls, but criminals who ignore the law won't follow the restrictions. Phone blocking tools can help catch more unwanted calls.

Scam Prevention Tips for Seniors: Secure Bank and Credit Accounts

Strong passwords and two-step verification on email and banking accounts close off easy access. A trusted family member or friend can help set them up if the account holder would like help. Keep any written password list in a private, secure place. 

Consider a credit freeze, too. A credit freeze with all three credit bureaus helps prevent anyone from opening new accounts in your name. 

You can temporarily lift the freeze when you need to apply for credit. The scam and identity theft pages from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau explain how to set one up and where to report a problem.

Agree on a Household Plan

Settings only go so far. Agree that nobody should send money, gift cards, or bank information in response to an unexpected call or message. It applies no matter how urgent the request sounds. Instead, hang up and call a number you already trust to verify the request.

It also helps to keep a short list of trusted numbers where everyone in the household can access them, such as

• Your bank
• Your pharmacy
• Two family members or friends who are easy to reach

If something slips through, act quickly. Report any scam to your bank the same day if you can. You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission, which uses reports to track and pursue fraud.

Practical Help Across the Northern Bronx

Following scam prevention tips for seniors can help older adults feel more secure and confident in their daily lives. Senior Helpers Northern Bronx offers in-home care that includes companionship, household help, errands, and rides to appointments. 

These services help older adults maintain their independence while staying at home. We serve Riverdale, Spuyten Duyvil, Baychester, Co-op City, and Woodlawn Heights. Contact us to ask about a visit schedule.