Staying Connected, Staying Safe

National Senior Safety Week

Fraud doesn’t just empty bank accounts; it erodes confidence and independence.

Gareth Jones

President & CEO, Canada Safety Council

As technology becomes more deeply woven into daily life, the threat of scams, frauds, and cyber schemes grows — and older adults are disproportionately targeted.

During National Senior Safety Week (November 6–12), the Canada Safety Council wants to spotlight the tactics scammers use, why social isolation makes someone more vulnerable, and how communities and individuals can reduce risk.

Fraud by the Numbers...

Reports in 2024

Estimated financial losses, 2024

Rank among most common crimes targeting seniors

Sources: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Employment and Social Development Canada

Why Seniors Are Targeted



Emotional Appeal

Scammers play on empathy, building trust before they exploit it.



Isolation

When seniors are left feeling lonely with minimal daily contact, they will be more likely to engage with someone willing to talk.



Urgency and Pressure

These elements can cloud reason, and scammers will take advantage using “Act now!” tactics.



False Authority

When a scammer impersonates legitimate entities, would-be victims are hesitant to question the legitimacy.

Many older Canadians live alone, especially after losing spouses, friends, or family nearby. Scammers know this trend and tend to take advantage of it. When someone lacks frequent social contact, they’re more likely to respond to unsolicited calls, messages, or requests for friendship.

A romance scam, for instance, might begin innocently enough. Compliments and companionship are the initial focus. But over time, the scammer begins asking for financial help. By then, emotional investment is high, and emotions can cloud reason.

Frauds where the scammer claims to be from a reputable organization, like the Canada Revenue Agency, also prey on people who may feel hesitant to verify independently. When faced with an allegedly official agency applying pressure, a potential victim may not have the immediate support required to help research the validity of the claim.

Practical Defences

Slow Down and Verify

Scammers pressure people to “act now.” If you get a call, hang up, take time, and verify independently. Never use the number the caller gives you.

Protect Personal Info

Don’t give your SIN, banking information, passwords, personal health numbers or two-factor authentication codes over phone or text unless you initiated the contact and trust the source.

Don't Send Money...

…without first confirming identity. Even if they seem emotional or in crisis, don’t wire money, send gift cards, or transfer funds until you’re certain of their identity. Ask questions only the real person would know.

Report and Lean on Support

Report suspicious calls or emails to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre immediately. They collect intelligence that helps other victims.

a grandmother and her granddaughter smile for the camera in a living room

Connection is the greatest cybersecurity tool.

Check in. Talk often. Ask questions.

Knowledge protects — but relationships prevent isolation.

For more information, please contact:

lewis.smith@safety-council.org

Lewis Smith

Manager, National Projects, Canada Safety Council