Stay Safe: How Seniors Can Spot and Avoid Scams in NW Calgary, AB

Scammers are getting more creative and persistent, often disguising their schemes with familiarity and urgency, making it easy for anyone to be caught off guard.

At Always Best Care, we believe that safety and peace of mind go hand in hand with quality senior care. That’s why we’re committed to supporting seniors in their daily lives and empowering them with the knowledge to recognize and avoid scams. 

Whether it’s a suspicious phone call, a too-good-to-be-true offer, or a message that doesn’t feel quite right, being aware of the warning signs can make all the difference. 

5 Scams Targeting Seniors in NW Calgary

Phone Impersonators Pretending to Be Loved Ones or Authorities

One of the most common and emotionally distressing scams involves callers pretending to be a grandchild, niece, or nephew in an emergency. These “grandparent scams” often claim there’s been an accident or legal trouble and urgently request money to be sent—often with a plea to “please don’t tell anyone.”

Other impersonators claim to be police officers, CRA agents, or utility company workers, demanding payment or threatening legal consequences. These calls are often compelling and use fear to create panic.

Tech Support Scams Using Scare Tactics to Demand Payment

Tech support scams often begin with a pop-up on the computer or an unexpected phone call claiming that the device is infected with a virus or has been hacked. The caller may pose as a representative from a well-known company like Microsoft or Apple and offer to “fix” the issue—for a fee. Once remote access is granted, scammers may install malicious software, lock the device, or demand further payment to restore access.

Fake Lotteries and Prize Offers Asking for Upfront Fees

Another widespread scam targeting seniors involves fake sweepstakes or prize winnings. The victim receives a call, email, or letter claiming they’ve won a large sum of money, a car, or an extravagant vacation. To claim the prize, they must first pay taxes, legal fees, or processing charges. In reality, there is no prize—and once the money is sent, it’s nearly impossible to recover.

Online Romance Scams That Manipulate Emotions

Romance scams are particularly cruel as they exploit emotional vulnerability. Scammers often create fake profiles on dating or social media platforms and initiate friendly, flattering conversations with seniors. Over time, they build trust and connection—only to introduce an “emergency” that requires financial help. Victims may send money repeatedly, believing they’re helping someone they care about. These scams can be both financially and emotionally devastating.

Charity Fraud Exploiting Kindness During Crises

Scammers often pose as charitable organizations seeking donations during natural disasters, health emergencies, or global conflicts. Seniors with generous hearts are especially vulnerable to these appeals, especially if the cause seems urgent and emotionally compelling. These scammers may use fake websites, forged credentials, or pressure tactics to get money quickly, which never reaches those in need.

3 Signs You Might Be Dealing with a Scam

Urgent Demands That Create a Sense of Panic

Scammers often try to rush you into making a quick decision by using fear or pressure. They might claim a loved one is in trouble, that your bank account has been compromised, or that you owe money to a government agency. These tactics are designed to make you act without thinking. Legitimate organizations will always give you time to ask questions and verify information. If someone insists that you must act right now, it’s a strong sign of a scam.

Requests for Unusual Payment Methods

No reputable company, charity, or government agency will ask you to pay using gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards. Scammers favor these payment methods because they’re difficult to trace and almost impossible to recover once sent. If you’re asked to buy gift cards and share the numbers or send digital currency to a stranger, it’s a clear indication that you’re dealing with a scam.

Poorly Written Emails or Messages With Suspicious Links

Scam emails and text messages often contain spelling mistakes, strange grammar, or vague language. They may address you generically, like “Dear Customer,” and include links that don’t match the supposed sender’s official website. Clicking on those links can lead to phishing sites or downloading harmful software. Always double-check the sender’s information and never click on anything suspicious or out of place.

6 Practical Tips to Help Seniors in NW Calgary Stay Safe

• Take your time: If someone is pressuring you to act fast, pause and think. Don’t be afraid to hang up or say, “I need to talk to someone first.”
  
• Verify the source: Always double-check who you’re speaking with before giving out any personal information, whether it’s a phone call, text, or email.
  
• Say no to gift cards or crypto payments: If someone asks you to pay this way, it’s a scam.
  
• Keep personal information private: Don’t share your Social Insurance Number, health card number, banking details, or passwords with anyone you don’t fully trust.
  
• Review your accounts regularly: Monitor bank and credit card statements for unfamiliar charges and report anything suspicious immediately.
  
• Talk about it: Staying connected with friends, family, or caregivers means you have people to turn to if something doesn’t seem right.

How In-Home Care Can Help Protect Seniors From Scams

In-home care providers do more than assist with daily tasks—they’re also trusted allies in helping seniors stay safe from scams. Regular visits and close communication allow caregivers to spot red flags early and support seniors in making informed decisions.

• Monitoring for warning signs: Caregivers can recognize changes in mood or behavior that might signal a senior has been targeted or is feeling anxious about a suspicious interaction.
  
• Helping verify communication: If a senior receives a strange phone call or message, a caregiver can help verify whether it’s legitimate before any action is taken.
  
• Providing digital guidance: Many caregivers assist with setting up secure devices, reviewing suspicious emails, or educating seniors about common online scams.
  
• Offering emotional support: Scammers often prey on isolation. Caregivers provide valuable companionship, reducing the risk of loneliness-based scams like romance frauds.
  
• Being a link to family: Caregivers can quickly inform family members if they suspect a scam is occurring, allowing swift action to protect the senior’s well-being.

Always Best Care in NW Calgary Provides Added Protection From Scams!

At Always Best Care of Calgary NW, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors. Our compassionate caregivers provide daily assistance, companionship, and guidance to help protect against fraud. 

Contact Always Best Care of Calgary NW at (403) 812-0778 to learn more and schedule your free consultation. Stay informed, stay alert, and stay safe.