Tips on Protecting Seniors from Scams

According to the SANS Institute, sadly, scammers frequently target older adults, believing them to be more trusting or less familiar with technology. In addition, seniors are often wealthy targets as they have accumulated large retirement and investment accounts, excellent credit, or other valuable assets that scammers are eager to exploit.

Finally, older individuals may be less likely to report being scammed due to embarrassment, fear of losing independence, or simply not knowing who to contact. 
Phone scams, emails, and texts are common, often with scammers pretending to be with government agencies, financial institutions, utility companies, tech companies, or family members in distress. While often targeting seniors, these scams often try to lure victims without regard to age. Attorneys, clients, staff, and relatives may be targets.

Constantly keeping them in mind and educating seniors about them are important steps for protection. Think Before You Connect or Act. For more information, click here.

These tips are courtesy of the ACBA Legal Technology and e-Discovery Committee, and the July 2025 OUCH! Newsletter (a free monthly security awareness newsletter published by the SANS Institute).