Guides8 min read12 July 2026
How to Protect Elderly Relatives from Scams
This guide helps families have supportive conversations and put practical protections in place for an older relative who may encounter a scam.
Older people can be targeted by scams, as can people of every age. The aim is not to remove someone's independence; it is to make it easier to pause, verify an unexpected request, and ask for support without shame.
Why Older People Are Targeted
Fraudsters target older people for several reasons: they are more likely to be at home to answer calls, they may have accumulated savings, they are less likely to have grown up with the internet and may be less familiar with digital fraud tactics, and they are often more trusting of authority figures such as bank employees and police officers.
The Most Common Scams Targeting Older People
- Courier fraud: Impersonating police or bank fraud teams, asking for cash or cards to be handed to a "courier"
- Phone scams: HMRC threats, bank fraud alerts, computer support scams
- Doorstep fraud: Rogue traders offering overpriced or unnecessary work
- Romance fraud: Building fake relationships online over months
- Investment fraud: Targeting retirement savings with fake opportunities
How to Have the Conversation
Talking to an elderly relative about scams requires sensitivity. Avoid being condescending or implying they are vulnerable. Frame it as something that affects everyone: "I've been reading about these scams that are targeting people — even really smart people are falling for them. Can we talk about what to do if you get a suspicious call?"
Practical Protections to Put in Place
| Protection | How to Set It Up |
|---|---|
| Call blocking | BT Call Protect, TrueCall device, or network-level blocking |
| Bank safeguards | Ask bank about "safe pass" or secondary authorisation for large transfers |
| Telephone Preference Service | Register at tpsonline.org.uk to reduce cold calls |
| Mail Preference Service | Register at mpsonline.org.uk to reduce scam mail |
| Trusted person on account | Some banks allow a trusted contact to be notified of unusual activity |
What to Do If They Have Been Scammed
React without blame. Contact the bank immediately, report suspected fraud through Report Fraud, and consider Adult Social Services where an adult may need additional support. Victim Support may also be able to help people affected by crime.
Help your elderly relatives stay safe — show them ScammersCheck so they can verify any suspicious contact before responding.
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