Scam safety

Common mobile scams targeting seniors

Scammers know many older adults are polite on the phone, may trust caller ID, and can be hurried by fake urgency. Awareness is the first defence.

Scam calls

Cold calls claiming to be banks, HMRC, police, or “technical support” often pressure someone to share codes or install remote-access apps. Legitimate organisations do not ask for PINs or full passwords by phone.

Fake bank texts

“Suspicious payment” texts with links to realistic-looking websites. Never tap links in unexpected texts — open the official banking app or call the number on your card instead.

WhatsApp family impersonation

Messages pretending to be a grandchild needing urgent money on a new number. Verify by calling the person on their usual number before sending anything.

Delivery text scams

“Small fee due” parcel messages are common. Check deliveries only via the retailer or courier site you ordered from, typed manually into the browser.

How to block scam calls

• Use your phone’s built-in block and silence-unknown-callers options
• Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce marketing calls
• Report persistent numbers to your network and Action Fraud where appropriate

Step-by-step help: How to stop scam calls on a mobile phone.

How to report scam texts in the UK

Forward suspicious SMS to 7726 (SPAM) on most UK networks, then delete the message. If money was lost, report to your bank immediately and to Action Fraud.

How families can help elderly relatives stay safe

• Agree a simple rule: “If it’s urgent, we call each other — we don’t only text.”
• Help set larger text, call blocking, and trusted contacts — with consent
• Review mobile bills together occasionally for unknown premium services
• Keep a written list of trusted numbers on the fridge, not only in the phone