America's Seniors Face Mounting Digital Threats, Experts Warn

America's seniors are increasingly vulnerable to a barrage of digital threats, experts caution, as technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed.

Tom Kamber, founder and executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS), part of AARP, emphasizes the delicate balance seniors must strike between leveraging the benefits of the internet and protecting themselves from scams. "Everybody has to use the internet these days for a lot of basic activities," Kamber said, highlighting the essential role of technology in modern life.

Unfortunately, scams and fraud remain the number one digital risk for older Americans. According to Kamber, seniors are disproportionately targeted, with scammers exploiting their vulnerabilities. "You have a target on your back when you get older these days," he warned, adding that older adults are five times more likely to lose money to scams than younger people.

Among the most insidious scams are AI deep fakes, which can make distinguishing real from fake nearly impossible without the proper tools and knowledge. From phishing emails to phone scams, these digital predators have grown increasingly sophisticated. Kamber advises seniors to scrutinize websites and email addresses closely to ensure they are reputable.

Licensed social worker Macie Smith echoed similar sentiments, urging seniors to avoid answering calls from unknown numbers or clicking on unfamiliar links. "It’s likely someone you did not share your number with," Smith warned, highlighting how duplicated profiles on social media can lead to fraudulent messages. Her advice? Call the individual directly to confirm suspicious messages.

Artificial intelligence isn’t just a tool for phone scams; it has infiltrated social media with fake videos and photos, making it harder for seniors to discern credible information. Kamber advocates for building "social common sense" and applying "street smarts" to online behavior as a defense mechanism. "Common sense is possibly one of the bigger assets for older people in learning to navigate this new world," he said.

To bolster their digital resilience, seniors are encouraged to maintain open communication with family members and friends. Sharing login information with a trusted tech-savvy person is another recommended safeguard. "This way, if there is ever a concern or question, that person can assist you in determining the credibility of the information and the source," Smith added.

Despite these risks, experts caution against isolating seniors from the digital landscape. Social media, for instance, can help combat loneliness and isolation while providing essential access to resources like Social Security benefits. "We want to offer as many safeguards as possible to reduce or eliminate their risks of being scammed, while continuing to ensure they are socially engaged," Smith emphasized.

OATS has partnered with Verizon to provide free technology and training programs for Americans over 50, focusing on safe and effective use of technology. This initiative includes free digital wellness lessons at Verizon stores and senior centers. "It encourages us to balance the potential risks and learn how to mitigate them," Kamber explained.

Donna Epps, Verizon's chief responsible business officer, highlighted the need for digital literacy training to combat emerging threats like AI voice cloning scams. "You may get a call, and it sounds like a loved one who is in trouble and seeking money – that's a common new scam," Epps noted. She emphasized the importance of staying current on "good digital hygiene" to navigate this increasingly complex digital world.

As technology evolves, seniors must remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring they benefit from the digital age while avoiding its pitfalls.