Digital payments have made daily life easier for senior citizens. They offer convenience by allowing easy payments for groceries, medicines, and travel bookings. They also promote independence, as seniors can make payments on their own without depending on family members, especially for small everyday expenses. In addition, digital payments improve safety and control because there is less need to carry cash, the risk of loss or theft is reduced, and every transaction is recorded for future reference.
As the use of digital payments increases, fraudsters are also becoming more active by using social engineering methods to deceive users. Some of the most common scams that target senior citizens are listed below:
Digital Arrest Scam:
Fraudsters pretend to be law enforcement officials and threaten arrest using false accusations. They pressure victims to send money or share personal information. It is important to remember that genuine government and law enforcement agencies never ask for money or conduct investigations through phone or video calls.
Investment Fraud:
Scammers pose as financial advisors and promote fake investment schemes, often using false endorsements from well-known organisations and promising very high returns. Once the money is transferred, they disappear. If an investment offer sounds too good to be true, it is most likely a scam.
Phishing and Vishing Scams:
These scams use emails, text messages, or phone calls that pretend to come from trusted organisations such as banks or government departments. Their aim is to trick senior citizens into sharing login details, OTPs, or other sensitive information.
Tech Support Scams:
Fraudsters claim to be from technology companies and say that a virus has been detected on the victim’s computer or phone. They then convince seniors to download files or apps that give them remote access, allowing them to steal data or redirect messages without the victim’s knowledge.
Refund and Payment Link Fraud:
In these cases, seniors receive a link claiming to offer a refund or rebate for an online purchase. Clicking the link leads to a fake website that steals login credentials or payment details.
Simple Safety Rules
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Never share sensitive information such as UPI PINs, OTPs, passwords, bank account details, or login credentials. Anyone asking for these details is attempting fraud.
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Do not click on unknown links or install apps sent by callers or people pretending to be officials. Screen-sharing and remote-access apps are often used to take control of your phone and steal personal data.
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If an investment promise seems unusually profitable, it is likely a scam. Always verify companies on official websites such as those of SEBI or RBI before investing. Check that websites use “https,” confirm correct domain names, and avoid clicking on unexpected or unsolicited links.
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Be cautious of messages that create urgency, such as claims that your account will be blocked, your KYC will expire, your SIM will stop working, or your pension will be suspended. These messages are meant to pressure you into acting quickly. Genuine institutions will give you time to verify information.
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If you receive unexpected calls or messages about legal problems, stay calm and verify the information first. Real government and law enforcement agencies never demand money or conduct investigations over phone or video calls, and they do not pressure people to act immediately.