Stay Informed. Stay Protected.
Technology has opened up incredible opportunities for older adults to stay connected with family, access services, and enjoy greater independence. Unfortunately, it has also created new opportunities for fraudsters and scammers who often target seniors through phone calls, emails, text messages, social media, and even in-person interactions.
Financial abuse and elder abuse are growing concerns, with many incidents involving people the victim knows and trusts. Knowledge is your strongest defense. Our free toolkit and workshops provide practical, easy-to-understand information to help you recognize scams, protect your personal and financial information, understand the warning signs of elder abuse, and know where to turn for help. Together, we can build safer, more connected communities where seniors can use technology with confidence and peace of mind.
Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams
Scammers often create a sense of fear, secrecy, excitement, or urgency to pressure people into acting quickly.
Our workshops help you recognize common warning signs before you share information, send money, click a link, or allow someone to access your device.
Pause. Check. Ask.
Before responding to an unexpected call, email, text message, or online request:
- Pause before taking action.
- Do not share passwords, PINs, security codes or banking information.
- Do not allow an unknown caller to access your computer or device.
- Contact the organization using a trusted telephone number.
- Speak with a family member, friend, bank representative or police before sending money.
A legitimate organization will not pressure you to keep a payment secret or demand payment through gift cards or cryptocurrency.
Recognize the Warning Signs
Be cautious when someone:
- Demands immediate payment
- Asks for gift cards or cryptocurrency
- Claims a family member is in an emergency
- Requests remote access to your device
- Asks for your banking PIN or verification code
- Says you won a prize you do not remember entering
- Pressures you not to speak with family or friends
- Promises guaranteed investment returns
- Develops an online relationship and then asks for money
- Threatens arrest, account closure or legal action
When something does not feel right, stop the conversation and ask for help.
Trusted Resources for Older Adults
The Little Black Book of Scams
Halton Regional Police Services:
What every older Canadian should know about fraud and scams:
Halton Elder Abuse Prevention Network:
"It's not right!"
Abuse of older adults is a power imbalance and can take many forms, including physical, psychological, financial, sexual, or neglect
In Memory of...
Because no one should have to face darkness alone.
To those who are no longer with us—your stories, your struggles, and your strength will never be forgotten. This space is a tribute to the individuals who battled silently, inspiring us to reach out, listen, and extend a hand before it’s too late.
