Scams Done On Seniors

Common senior scams in Canada include AI voice “grandparent” scams, bank‑investigator fraud, CRA/Service Canada impersonation, parcel‑delivery text scams, romance/investment fraud, and identity theft, with Canadians losing over $530 million to fraud in 2025 according to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre.

Overview

Older adults are frequently targeted because scammers assume they are more trusting, home during the day, less familiar with new technology, and may have savings. Fraud against seniors is the most common crime affecting older Canadians. www.canada.ca

Most Common Scams Targeting Seniors

1. AI Voice Impersonation (“Grandparent Scam 2.0”)

• Scammers clone a family member’s voice using AI and claim they are in urgent trouble.
• Red flags: secrecy, emotional pressure, immediate payment requests.
• Action: Hang up and call the real family member using a known number.
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2. Bank Investigator Scams

• Fraudsters pose as bank staff, claim your account is compromised, and ask you to withdraw or transfer money.
• No Canadian bank will ever ask you to move money for an “investigation.”
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3. Government Impersonation (CRA, Service Canada)

• Threats about taxes, SIN suspension, or arrest.
• Government agencies never demand payment via gift cards, crypto, or wire transfer.
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4. Parcel Delivery Text Scams

• Fake texts claim a package is waiting or a fee is owed; links steal personal data or install malware.
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5. Romance & Investment Scams

• Fraudsters build emotional trust online, then request money or crypto “investments.”
• Romance scam losses exceed $50 million per year in Canada.
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6. Identity Theft

• Stolen personal information used to open accounts, take loans, or access funds.
• Protect SIN, credit cards, and PINs; report lost wallets or missing mail immediately.
  www.canada.ca

7. Email, Text & Phishing Scams

• Fake banking alerts, CRA messages, or package notices.
• Warning signs: urgent language, suspicious links, generic greetings.
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8. Tech Support Scams

• Callers claim to be from Microsoft/Apple and ask for remote access to “fix” a virus.
• Never allow remote access unless you initiated the call to a verified number.
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9. Door‑to‑Door & Home Improvement Scams

• High‑pressure sales tactics for unnecessary repairs or fake charity collections.
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How Seniors Can Protect Themselves

• Never share SIN, banking details, passwords, or security codes.
• Do not click links in unsolicited texts or emails.
• Hang up on suspicious calls and call back using an official number.
• Use call‑blocking and email spam filters.
• Speak with a trusted family member before sending money.
  www.seniorsadvocatebc.ca

How to Tell if Something Is a Scam

Be cautious if someone:

• Contacts you unexpectedly
• Creates panic or urgency
• Asks for unusual payment methods (gift cards, crypto)
• Requests personal information
• Refuses to let you verify their identity
  www.seniorsadvocatebc.ca

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

1. Stop all contact with the scammer.
2. Contact your bank or credit union immediately.
3. Report to:
   • Local police
   • Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre (1‑888‑495‑8501 or online)
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Fraud prevention for seniors relies on recognizing red flags, verifying identities, and avoiding rushed decisions.