Secure Your Circle: Protecting Loved Ones from Scams 💡

We are all about building a solid financial future here, and that includes helping our families stay safe online.

Bad actors often target seniors, but as the “tech experts” of the family, we can help them stay one step ahead. Many scams rely on urgency, like high-pressure texts, unexpected calls, or suspicious links designed to make someone act quickly.

Take a few minutes this week to chat with a parent or grandparent about these tips. A quick conversation could make them feel confident and secure.

What’s one scam-spotting tip you’ve shared with your family?

This is so important. The biggest tip I gave my folks: ‘If you didn’t start the conversation, don’t provide the information.’ I told them if the ‘bank’ or ‘government’ calls out of the blue, hang up and call the official number on the back of their card. It takes 30 seconds but saves a lifetime of headaches!

The Golden Rule in our house is never click the link. If it’s an urgent delivery or a refund, go to the official website manually. My dad is now a pro at spotting those weirdly spelled FedEx URLs!