The Growing Threat of Spam Calls to Seniors
Phone scams directed at older adults have become increasingly sophisticated and relentless. Scammers exploit common vulnerabilities, such as a natural inclination to be polite, less tech-savvy backgrounds, and potential cognitive decline. Beyond a simple nuisance, these calls represent a significant financial and emotional threat. Common scam tactics include impersonating government agencies like the IRS or Social Security Administration, faking tech support issues, and emotional pleas known as "grandparent scams" where scammers pretend to be a family member in distress.
Immediate Actions to Block Unwanted Calls
Registering with the National Do Not Call Registry
This is a foundational step for reducing telemarketing calls. Registering a phone number is free and only takes a few minutes online or by phone. While it primarily targets legitimate telemarketers and won't stop illegal scammers, it can significantly reduce the overall volume of unsolicited calls. If a number on the registry receives a telemarketing call after 31 days, it is a strong indicator that the call is illegal and likely a scam.
Utilizing Phone Carrier Services
Most major phone carriers offer built-in or optional services to help filter and block spam calls. These services often analyze incoming calls and flag them as potential spam, scam, or robocalls.
- AT&T: Offers Call Protect, a free service that automatically blocks calls from likely fraudsters and provides warning labels for suspected spam.
- Verizon: Provides Call Filter, which offers similar spam and scam call detection and blocking features.
- T-Mobile: Features Scam Shield, a free service for eligible customers that includes scam call reporting and blocking.
Using Third-Party Call Blocking Apps and Devices
For those seeking more robust protection, third-party apps and devices are available. Apps like Nomorobo, Hiya, and RoboKiller can automatically block a high percentage of known scam calls. For landlines, devices that connect to the phone can be programmed to block specific numbers or filter calls based on a pre-approved list of contacts.
Creating a Proactive Defense Strategy
Educate and Communicate with Your Loved Ones
Open, non-judgmental conversations about phone scams are crucial. Regularly discuss the latest scam trends with elderly family members and reassure them that it's okay to hang up if they feel uncomfortable. Create a "what-if" plan for different scenarios, such as a caller claiming to be from a government agency or a family member in trouble.
Practice Call Screening Habits
Encourage seniors to develop a habit of not answering calls from unknown numbers. A helpful tip is to let all calls from unfamiliar numbers go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will leave a message; scammers typically will not. A personalized voicemail greeting that states, "I do not answer calls from numbers I don't recognize," can also deter some robocalls.
Securing Their Voicemail
For seniors who use voicemail, ensure they have a strong, unique password set up. Some providers allow access to voicemail simply by calling from the same number, a vulnerability that can be exploited by tech-savvy scammers. Setting a password adds an extra layer of protection.
What to Do If a Scam Call Gets Through
If a suspicious call is answered, here is what to do:
- Hang up immediately. Do not interact with the caller, and do not press any numbers to opt-out, as this confirms your number is active.
- Never provide personal information. This includes Social Security numbers, bank details, or credit card numbers.
- Do not pay with unusual methods. Legitimate agencies and companies will never demand payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Report the scam. Reporting is a vital step in helping authorities combat fraud. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) accepts reports of fraud at its website, ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Comparison of Call Blocking Solutions
| Solution | Cost | Devices Supported | Effectiveness | Ease of Setup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Do Not Call Registry | Free | Landlines & Mobiles | Low (for illegal scammers) | Very Easy |
| Phone Carrier Services | Free/Subscription | Mobile Phones | Medium (detects known scam numbers) | Easy |
| Third-Party Apps (e.g., Nomorobo) | Free/Subscription | Mobiles & Landlines | High (blocks known scam lists) | Moderate |
| Landline Blocking Device | One-time purchase | Landline Phones | High (user-controlled blocking) | Moderate |
| Smartphone Settings | Free | iOS & Android Phones | Varies (manual blocking/silencing) | Easy to Moderate |
The Role of Family and Caregivers
Family members and caregivers are often the first line of defense. Taking the initiative to set up call-blocking technology and registering phone numbers on the Do Not Call list can take the burden off seniors. Furthermore, regularly monitoring phone bills for suspicious charges (such as those from premium services or international calls they didn't make) can help catch a problem early. A supportive, open dialogue builds trust and makes seniors more likely to come forward if they have been targeted.
Conclusion
While spam calls pose a persistent threat, proactive strategies can significantly reduce the risk for elderly individuals. By combining technology like call-blocking apps and carrier services with common-sense habits like not answering unknown numbers, seniors can regain control of their phones. Regular, supportive conversations about scam awareness with family and caregivers reinforce these measures, creating a robust shield against fraudulent activity. Protecting our elders from these predatory calls is a collective effort that prioritizes their safety and peace of mind.
