Online scams are becoming more sophisticated each year, and older adults are often targeted by fraudsters hoping to catch someone off guard. Whether it’s through phishing emails, fake customer service calls, or misleading websites, these tactics can trick even the most cautious person. Fortunately, there are clear, manageable steps that seniors—and their families—can take to avoid getting caught in these traps. Here are six ways to help reduce the risk of falling victim to online scams in 2025.
1. Avoid Sharing Personal Information with Unverified Sources
When someone reaches out unexpectedly—whether it’s via email, text, or phone call—it’s important to be cautious before handing over personal details. Names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and credit card info are highly valuable to scammers. One key principle to keep in mind: if you didn’t initiate the contact, don’t provide sensitive information. Even if the message or call appears to come from a familiar company, it’s safer to independently verify the request before giving out any details.
2. Always Verify Who You’re Talking To
Scammers often pose as representatives from well-known organizations to gain trust. A good habit is to cross-check who you’re dealing with. Search for the person or company online—look at LinkedIn, business websites, or official pages on social platforms. Fake profiles are usually thin on content and friends, or may look hastily made. If you can’t confirm the person’s identity through legitimate sources, it’s best to end the interaction.
3. Use a VPN to Help Safeguard Your Internet Activity
A VPN, or virtual private network, adds a layer of privacy when you’re browsing or accessing online accounts. It works by rerouting your connection through a secure server, making it harder for outsiders to track your IP address or see your online activity. VPN services are widely available, user-friendly, and work on most devices including smartphones and tablets. For a small monthly fee, it can significantly reduce the chances of someone spying on your internet use or collecting your personal data.
4. Consider Using a Data Removal Service
Over time, a surprising amount of personal information can find its way online—addresses, phone numbers, even past employment history. This can be used by scammers to craft convincing messages that sound legitimate. Data removal services specialize in scrubbing this kind of information from various online directories and databases. While it’s not possible to remove everything, these services can make it much more difficult for bad actors to dig up details that could be used in a scam.
5. Hang Up and Call Back Using a Trusted Number
If you receive a call claiming to be from your bank, a retailer, or even a government agency, it’s okay to be skeptical. One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself is to hang up and call the organization directly using a number you’ve verified—such as one listed on their official website or your billing statement. Scammers often use urgent language or pressure tactics, but by taking a step back and reestablishing contact on your own terms, you stay in control of the situation.
6. Double-Check Email Addresses Before Taking Action
A common tactic used by scammers is to send fake emails that closely resemble those from legitimate companies. These often include minor but important differences in the sender’s address—extra letters, strange domains, or unusual formatting. Before clicking on any links or providing information, take a moment to examine the email address carefully. Messages that claim you’ve won a prize, need to confirm a purchase, or are due a refund should always be treated with suspicion if anything seems off.
Scammers are persistent, but so is knowledge. The more you know about how these schemes work, the easier it becomes to spot the warning signs. By following these practical tips and sharing them with others, seniors and their families can take meaningful steps toward safer internet use this year.
