Tips for avoiding scams targeting seniors
At Meadowlands, we believe that living well includes feeling safe, confident, and informed. While many seniors enjoy retirement with greater freedom and peace of mind, this season of life can also bring unique challenges—especially when it comes to fraud and scams.
Across Canada, there’s been a rise in scams that specifically target older adults. Fraudsters often view seniors as more trusting, less tech-savvy, and more financially secure. But that doesn’t mean you or your loved ones have to be vulnerable. With awareness, community support, and a few simple tools, you can protect yourself and others from becoming a victim.
This blog is your guide to understanding how scams work, recognizing warning signs, and learning what to do if you or someone you care about has been targeted. Knowledge is power—and here at Meadowlands, we’re committed to keeping our community safe, supported, and well-informed.
Why Are Seniors Targeted?
Scammers are always looking for easy opportunities—and unfortunately, older adults are frequently in their sights. This can be due to a number of reasons:
A trusting nature: Many seniors were raised in a time when people valued face-to-face connections and placed more trust in strangers.
Less familiarity with digital technology: Not everyone is comfortable navigating online platforms or spotting fake emails and websites.
Perceived financial stability: Retirement savings and home ownership make seniors attractive targets for financial scams.
Social isolation: Those who live alone may be more open to conversation, which scammers can exploit to gain trust.
However, being aware of these tactics is the first and best defence. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to be scam-savvy.
Common Scams in Canada Targeting Seniors
Here are some of the most reported scams affecting Canadian seniors, including right here in Medicine Hat:
1. The “Grandchild in Trouble” Scam
A caller pretends to be your grandchild and says they’re in trouble—perhaps arrested or in an accident—and urgently needs money. They often beg you not to tell their parents.
Tip: Hang up and call your grandchild or another family member directly. Never send money unless you’ve verified the situation yourself.
2. CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) Impersonators
You may receive a phone call, email, or text saying you owe taxes or are under investigation. Scammers may demand payment and threaten legal action.
Tip: The CRA will never threaten arrest, ask for payment in gift cards or cryptocurrency, or ask for personal info via phone or email. Always contact the CRA directly through their official website or phone line.
3. Computer Tech Support Scams
You might get a pop-up on your screen or a call claiming your computer has a virus. The scammer offers to “fix” the issue remotely—for a fee.
Tip: Never allow remote access to your computer unless you’ve initiated the service with someone you trust. Legitimate companies will never call you out of the blue.
4. Fake Prize or Lottery Scams
You’re told you’ve won a prize or lottery—but you need to pay taxes or fees first.
Tip: If you didn’t enter, you didn’t win. Real contests don’t require upfront payment.
5. Romance and Friendship Scams
Scammers may build a fake relationship through phone calls or online chats, slowly gaining your trust and then asking for money or gifts.
Tip: Be cautious when someone you’ve never met in person asks for financial help—no matter how friendly or familiar they seem.
Warning Signs to Watch Out For
While scams come in many forms, they often include one or more of these red flags:
Pressure to act immediately
Requests to keep the conversation a secret
Unusual payment requests (like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency)
Asking for personal details such as SIN, bank account numbers, or passwords
Claims that seem too good to be true
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your intuition. It’s always okay to hang up, delete a message, or say no. For more practical tips on navigating technology safely—from spotting fake news to avoiding social media pitfalls—check out Lifeline Canada’s guide to digital safety for seniors.
Simple Ways to Stay Safe
Here’s how you can protect yourself and others in the Meadowlands community:
1. Don’t respond to suspicious calls or messages
Hang up or delete. Scammers often rely on panic and confusion—refusing to engage is your best defence.
2. Never share personal information unless you’re sure
Keep your SIN, banking details, and passwords private. If in doubt, speak to a trusted family member or Meadowlands team member before responding.
3. Use strong passwords and don’t reuse them
Choose secure, unique passwords for each of your accounts. Consider using a password manager or keeping a written record in a safe place.
4. Confirm before sending money
Always double-check the situation by calling a family member or official organization directly.
5. Stay connected and talk it out
Isolation increases vulnerability. Regular chats with family, neighbours, and community staff can help you stay in the loop and avoid falling for fake stories.
For a detailed, printable resource you can keep on hand, the Canadian Bankers Association’s Cybersecurity Toolkit for Older Adults offers step-by-step guidance on protecting your information, spotting scams, and staying safe online.
What To Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you’ve fallen victim to a scam, don’t panic. You’re not alone—and there are steps you can take to limit the damage and protect others:
Stop communication with the scammer right away.
Report the scam to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or call 1-888-495-8501.
Contact your bank or credit card provider to flag the incident and secure your accounts.
Report the fraud to the Medicine Hat Police Service, especially if you’ve lost money or feel threatened.
Tell someone you trust—a friend, family member, or team member at Meadowlands. Shame has no place here; support is key.
Local Resources That Can Help
You don’t have to navigate this alone. There are trusted, local resources available to help you stay safe and informed:
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – 1-888-495-8501
Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) – Visit their website or local detachment for reporting tools and scam alerts
Seniors Resource Council – Offering education and outreach programs
Your Meadowlands team – We’re here to help you verify information, talk through concerns, and connect you with the right supports
At Meadowlands, Safety Is Community
Here in our Meadowlands community, safety is more than a security system or a locked door—it’s about awareness, empowerment, and care. That’s why we regularly share resources, host educational sessions, and create space for conversation.
If you ever feel uncertain about a message or interaction, reach out. We’ll help you make sense of the situation, connect with the right people, and take steps to stay protected.
Let’s continue to support one another, ask questions, and build a safer, stronger community together.
Continue your journey here
Looking to take the next step or simply stay connected? Here are a few helpful links:
Contact us – We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
Book a tour – Come experience our community in person.
Visit our YouTube channel – See daily life, special moments, expert interviews and resident stories in action.
About Meadowlands
Tucked in the heart of Medicine Hat, Meadowlands is a vibrant, caring community where seniors truly feel at home. Offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, Meadowlands brings together safety, connection, and comfort in a thoughtfully designed space. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals, enriching daily activities, salon and fitness amenities, peaceful walking paths, and the reassurance of 24/7 healthcare support. Managed by Optima Living, a trusted senior living provider with over 15 years of experience across Western Canada, Meadowlands is dedicated to honouring each resident’s journey, supporting them to live fully, confidently, and with dignity every day.