Why older users are targeted
Many older people joined social media later in life to keep up with family, and they are often polite, trusting and less familiar with how scams look online. Some have savings or pensions that scammers want. Loneliness can also make friendly strangers feel welcome.
None of this means older people are naive. Scams are designed by professionals, and anyone can be caught on a busy or stressful day.
The scams they are most likely to meet
Fake giveaways and prize messages, impersonation of celebrities or even grandchildren, romance scams, investment hype promising safe high returns, and fake 'support' messages about account problems. Health miracle products and fake shops are also common.
Another classic is the urgent family emergency: a message claiming to be a child or grandchild with a new number who needs money right now.
Set things up together
Sit down together and turn on two-step verification, check privacy settings and set the account so only people they know can message them, if that suits them. Make sure their phone and apps are updated. Save your number and a few trusted contacts clearly in their phone.
Show them how to report and block an account, so they feel in control rather than dependent on you.
Agree on a few simple family rules
A 'call first' rule works well: before sending money or codes to anyone, including family, call that person on the number already saved. Agree that nobody in the family will ever ask for a one-time code by message. Some families even choose a private family code word for emergencies.
Keep the rules short enough to remember. Writing them on a card next to the phone can help.
Talk without talking down
Share real examples you have seen, rather than lecturing. Make it clear that asking 'is this real?' is always welcome and that being targeted is not their fault. If they do get scammed, respond with support first, then help them contact the bank and report it.
Frequently asked questions
My parent already sent money to a scammer. What now?
Contact their bank or payment provider immediately, save all messages and report the account on the platform. Reassure them that it is not their fault, as shame can stop people from sharing the details that help recovery.
Should I manage my parent's account for them?
Only with their agreement. Helping set up safety features and being available for questions usually works better than taking control, and keeps their confidence intact.