Scammers are increasingly targeting elderly individuals—especially those living alone or in aged care. From fake romance plots to too-good-to-be-true job offers, seniors are losing millions to schemes that manipulate their trust, emotions, and lack of digital literacy. In this blog we will cover the Top 8 Signs Your Elderly Parent Is Being Scammed, but before a short story
Scammed mother - A reddit story
A recent Reddit post revealed a shocking case where an elderly woman believed she was romantically involved with Elon Musk, had been promised a Tesla, and claimed she was engaged to him. She was so convinced that she even sold her furniture, communicated through encrypted apps like Signal and Zangi, and dismissed family concerns. Click here to read more about this story on reddit.
Sadly this these type of scams are not rare.
Reported Scam in Australia 2025 targeting elderly parents
In 2025 alone, there has been a significant increase in Scams targeting our elderly parents of (55 – 64) and (65. and over) age group, please check the below data from Scamwatch.gov.au.
Reported Losses
Reported Scams
So, how can you tell if your elderly parent is being scammed? Here are the Top 10 Signs Your Elderly Parent Is Being Scammed, and that you need to look for.
What are the top 10 Signs Your Elderly Parent Is Being Scammed?
Scammers use their psychological and social engineering tactics to influence our elderly parents. They will go above and beyond to influence elderly parents. Scammers use social media, dating or gaming apps and websites to find people looking for love and friendship. They create fake profiles, sometimes of famous people. They might also call or message a lot to make you feel special. This is sometimes called ‘love bombing’.
1. They Believe They’re in a Secret Relationship with a Public Figure or someone with a beautiful personality
If your parent claims to be romantically involved with someone famous (like a celebrity, politician, or tech billionaire), it’s a major red flag. Scammers often impersonate celebrities to win trust and exploit emotional vulnerabilities.
Similar story was the case of 60 + year mother where scammer tried to impersonate Billionaire Elon Musk and made her believe that Elon Musk was going to buy her a home with engagement promises.
2. They’re Using Unusual Messaging Apps Like Zangi or Signal
Scammers would try their best to remain untravcable from authorities and always try to use encrypted apps to avoid being traced.
If your parent suddenly prefers apps like Signal, Zangi, or Telegram, and avoids regular texts or calls, it could signal foul play.
or if the scammer is using the instagram account, ensure if your parents are the victim of phishing scams on instagram.
or is it from the facebook marketplace PayID Scam.
Tip: Try asking your parents who they’re talking to and why they switched from familiar platforms.
3. They Mention Receiving or Sending Apple Gift Cards or Crypto
One of the significant sign that makes a list on our Top 8 Signs Your Elderly Parent Is Being Scammed is the use of giftcards or crypto.
If your elderly parents suddenly starts putting money into crypto and buying gift cards, it is a massive red flag.
Tip: Try asking why are they buying gift cards or putting money in cryptocurrency.
4. They’re Suddenly Secrecy Obsessed or Say They Signed an NDA
Some scammers convince victims they’re part of a secret mission, relationship, or contract. Claims of NDAs, security clearances, or confidential jobs should raise immediate concern.
It is a red flag and you must start to collect more information as soon as possible.
Try asking “Why would a regular person need to sign a non-disclosure agreement for a job or relationship?”
5. They’re Isolating themselves and selling all their pesonal belongings suddenly
A classic sign of manipulation is when the victim stops answering calls or begins withdrawing from family. Scammers often convince seniors that loved ones “don’t understand” or will try to “ruin things.” Also, If your parent is selling furniture, jewelry, or property to “invest in something big” or to “move in with someone,” that’s a potential scam. It often coincides with false promises of luxury homes, travel, or big payouts.
In the above reddit post mentioned on this blog, the 60+ year old mother sold her furniture believing Elon Musk was buying her a furnished house.
6. They’re planning sudden trips to meet unknown or high profile people with no proof
A other classic sign of manipulation is when elderly parents start to organise sudden trips claiming to meet unknown person and travel expenses are all covered up. In this case, the best way to deal can be asking about the travel itenery, plans, hotel or flight bookings or more details about the person of meeting.
7. They Insist “No Harm Can Be Done” Because They Have No Money
Some seniors justify risky behavior by saying they’re scam-proof because they don’t have money or credit. But the emotional toll, data loss, or even identity theft can still have devastating consequences.
Try reminding them that scammers not only intend to steal money, the also like to damage dignity, relationships and mental health.
8. They’ve Fallen for Similar Scams Before
Unfortunately, some of our elderly parents more susceptible to scams and may fall victim multiple times. In the Reddit case, the woman previously believed she was raising a child with a U.S. general.
Closely monitor the Patterns: Unusual romantic entanglements, military connections, or far-fetched jobs are recurring scam formats.
What You Can Do when Your Elderly Parent Is Being Scammed?
If you have come to a conconusion that your elderly parenet is being scammed then calm yourself down first. Its time to have a proper conversation with your parent to prevent further damages, start with:
A gentle conversation. Avoid accusing or embarrassing them—express concern and curiosity.
Educate with examples. Show them stories of real people who’ve been scammed.
Report to Scamwatch in Australia or IDCare, or your local police.
Install scam protection tools on their phone and computer.
Review their contacts, emails, and messages together if possible.
Encourage open digital habits—check in on who they talk to online.
Final Thoughts
Scams don’t just steal money—they steal trust, dignity, and independence. If your elderly parent is exhibiting any of these red flags, it’s time to act with compassion and urgency. Don’t wait until they’ve lost thousands—or worse, their peace of mind.
Educate, communicate, and protect. Our elderly deserve safety and support in a world that’s increasingly built to confuse and exploit them.
