Online Safety Tips: Avoiding Scams & Phishing

by Vince Baiera October 28, 2025

In today’s connected world, the internet has become an essential part of our daily lives. From online shopping and telehealth appointments to social media and digital banking, the convenience is unmatched. But with that convenience comes risk—especially for seniors and caregivers who may not be as familiar with modern digital threats.

Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to trick people into giving up personal information, money, or access to their devices. Whether it’s through fake emails, scam calls, or fraudulent websites, scams and phishing attempts are now more common than ever.

The good news? You can stay safe online by following a few simple yet powerful safety practices. In this blog, we’ll walk through the most common online scams, how to recognize them, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Understanding Online Scams and Phishing

Before diving into prevention, it’s important to understand what we’re dealing with.

Phishing is a type of scam where attackers impersonate legitimate organizations (like your bank, the IRS, or a well-known retailer) to steal your personal data—such as passwords, Social Security numbers, or credit card details. These messages often come through email, text message, or even social media and typically include a link that leads to a fake website designed to look real.

Other common online scams include:

Tech support scams: A pop-up or phone call claims your computer is infected, and you need to pay for a “fix.”
Online shopping scams: Fake websites or ads that sell items at unbeatable prices—but never deliver.
Romance scams: Someone pretends to form a relationship online to gain emotional trust and later requests money.
Lottery or inheritance scams: You’re told you’ve won money or inherited wealth—but need to pay fees to claim it.
Impersonation scams: Someone pretends to be a relative, friend, or even a government official asking for urgent help.

Each scam relies on one key factor: trust. Scammers exploit human emotions—fear, urgency, love, or greed—to make people act quickly without verifying information.

How to Identify a Phishing Attempt

Recognizing a scam is half the battle. Here’s how to spot phishing attempts before it’s too late:

1. Check the sender’s email or phone number

If an email claims to be from your bank, but the sender’s address looks odd (like “bankalerts@secure-verify123.com), it’s likely a scam. Reputable organizations will always send messages from their official domain.

2. Look for grammatical errors and awkward wording

Phishing emails often come from non-native speakers or automated scripts, leading to strange phrasing or obvious typos.

3. Beware of urgent or threatening language

Scammers want you to panic and act without thinking. If a message says “Your account will be locked in 24 hours unless you act now,” take a deep breath and verify through the official website instead.

4. Hover over links before clicking

Without clicking, place your cursor over a link to see where it really leads. If it doesn’t match the legitimate website’s URL, don’t click it.

5. Watch for requests for personal information

No legitimate company will ask for sensitive data like passwords, credit card numbers, or your Social Security number over email or text.

Practical Online Safety Tips for Seniors and Caregivers

Seniors are often prime targets for online scams, not because they’re less capable, but because scammers assume they may be less familiar with digital technology. For caregivers helping older adults navigate the internet, education and prevention go hand in hand.

Here are actionable ways to stay safe online:

1. Use strong, unique passwords

Avoid using the same password across multiple sites. Instead, use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager to safely store and generate strong passwords.

2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

2FA adds an extra step to logging in—like entering a code sent to your phone. Even if someone steals your password, they won’t get in without this second layer of security.

3. Keep software and devices updated

Updates often fix security vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Enable automatic updates for your computer, phone, and antivirus software.

4. Use secure Wi-Fi connections

Avoid public Wi-Fi when shopping, banking, or sending sensitive information. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data.

5. Be cautious on social media

Scammers can use details you post (like your birthday or pet’s name) to guess passwords or answer security questions. Limit what you share publicly.

6. Verify before trusting

If you get an unexpected call, text, or email asking for money or information—pause. Hang up, and call the company or person back using a known number.

7. Educate loved ones

Talk openly with older family members about online safety. Encourage them to ask for help before responding to suspicious messages.

Creating a Safe Home Environment—Physically and Digitally

Staying safe doesn’t stop at your devices—it extends to your home, too. A secure and accessible environment reduces the chance of accidents, especially for seniors managing health challenges or mobility issues.

Just as you protect your personal information online, physical safety starts with reliable support equipment. For example, the Step2Bed is a practical mobility aid that helps older adults get in and out of bed safely. It’s especially helpful for those with balance or strength concerns, offering adjustable height and a stable grab bar.

Creating a safe environment—both online and offline—ensures peace of mind for seniors and caregivers alike.

Real-Life Examples of Online Scams

Learning from real stories can make online safety lessons more relatable.

Case 1: The “Grandparent” Scam
An older adult receives a frantic call from someone claiming to be their grandchild in trouble, needing money for bail or an emergency. The caller insists on secrecy and urgency. Unfortunately, many have sent funds before realizing it was a scam.
Case 2: The Fake Tech Support Pop-Up
A message appears on a computer screen saying “Your computer is infected! Call this number for support.” The number connects to scammers who remotely access the computer and demand payment.
Case 3: The Online Shopping Trap
A retiree finds a website selling discounted medical equipment. They order, pay, and wait—only to find the site vanishes days later. Always ensure online stores are legitimate, with secure “https” in the address and verified reviews.

Protecting Your Finances Online

Financial fraud is one of the most devastating outcomes of scams. To keep your finances safe:

Use credit cards instead of debit cards for online purchases. They often offer better fraud protection.
Regularly check bank statements and credit reports for unfamiliar transactions.
Set up account alerts for withdrawals or purchases over a certain amount.
Never send money or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person.
If scammed, report it immediately to your bank and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Digital Literacy for Seniors: Learning Never Stops

Many seniors are embracing technology—from video calls with grandkids to online fitness classes and telehealth appointments. The more familiar older adults are with digital tools, the more confidently they can spot and avoid scams.

Encourage participation in digital literacy workshops offered by libraries, community centers, or senior organizations. These programs cover topics like safe browsing, using apps, and spotting scams.

A great starting point is reading educational content tailored to senior safety—such as our previous blog, "Fall Prevention Research: What Seniors and Caregivers Need to Know" which highlights how prevention and awareness make all the difference. Just as fall prevention relies on understanding risks, online safety depends on recognizing red flags.

Helping Seniors Stay Connected—Safely

Social isolation can make seniors more vulnerable to online scams. When people feel lonely, they’re more likely to respond to friendly strangers or engage in online relationships that could be fraudulent.

Encourage seniors to stay connected with trusted online communities or family chat groups. Teach them to be cautious about who they interact with online and to never share personal details with new acquaintances.

For seniors managing mobility or spending more time indoors, staying active and safe at home also supports emotional well-being. Products like the StrongArm Cane not only improve balance and confidence but also promote independence—helping users engage safely in their daily routines, both offline and online.

How Caregivers Can Support Online Safety

Caregivers play an essential role in protecting seniors from scams. Here’s how they can help:

Regularly review emails and messages together—spot suspicious activity early.
Install reliable security software and ensure it’s always updated.
Set up trusted contact lists for calls and emails.
Bookmark legitimate websites for banking, shopping, and healthcare.
Discuss online experiences often to encourage open communication.

Empowering seniors to recognize and avoid scams strengthens their confidence while preserving their independence.

What to Do If You Fall Victim to a Scam

Even the most cautious individuals can fall victim to online fraud. If it happens, act fast:

Stop all communication with the scammer immediately.
Report the incident to your bank, the FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov), or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov).
Change your passwords on all accounts that may have been compromised.
Run a full security scan on your devices.
Contact your local police department if you’ve lost money or personal data.

Remember, there’s no shame in being targeted. Scammers are professionals at manipulation. Reporting your experience can help others avoid the same trap.

Building a Culture of Online Safety

Creating safer online experiences isn’t just about individual effort—it’s about community awareness. Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to share knowledge about scams. Host digital safety sessions in local senior centers or community groups.

By spreading awareness, we create a stronger, more resilient community that’s one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best way to verify if an email or message is real?

Always contact the company directly using information from their official website—not from the email or message itself. Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown senders.

2. How do I teach my parents or grandparents about online safety?

Start with simple examples and demonstrate how scams look in real life. Encourage them to pause before reacting to urgent messages and to check with you before taking action.

3. Can antivirus software stop all scams?

No software can stop every scam. Antivirus programs are a strong layer of defense, but awareness and cautious behavior remain your best protection.

4. Is it safe to shop online?

Yes—if you stick to reputable websites with “https” in the address bar and verified reviews. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

5. What should I do if my information is leaked in a data breach?

Change your passwords immediately and enable two-factor authentication. You can also use free tools like “Have I Been Pwned” to check if your email has been exposed.

Recommendations

Stay proactive: Regularly update passwords and review online accounts.
Educate others: Share these safety tips with friends, caregivers, and seniors.
Invest in safety—online and at home: Tools like the Step2Bed and StrongArm Cane improve physical security, complementing digital safety habits.
Report scams quickly: Your report can prevent future frauds.
Continue learning: Keep reading trustworthy resources like AARP, the FTC, and Step2Health’s blog for safety updates.

Final Thoughts

The internet can be a wonderful place for connection, convenience, and learning—but it’s also where caution is key. By staying informed, using smart habits, and helping others do the same, you can confidently navigate the digital world without fear.

Safety—both online and offline—is about preparation, awareness, and trust in the right tools. Stay alert, stay informed, and you’ll stay one step ahead of scammers.