How to Talk About Scams With a Loved One

We all want to protect our loved ones, especially when it comes to sneaky scams that could rob them of their hard-earned money. But how do you talk about scams without sounding patronising or causing alarm? At Phonely, we understand this delicate balance. Let’s explore some friendly ways to have this important conversation.

Why talk about scams?

Scammers are getting cleverer by the day, and they often target vulnerable people, including our older relatives. This is because criminals often perceive this portion of the population as being less tech-savvy, as having cognitive challenges and as being isolated and alone. By talking openly about scams, you can arm your loved ones with the knowledge they need to stay safe and feel confident. Plus, it shows that you care!

How to start the conversation & finally talk about scams

• Choose the right moment: Pick a relaxed time when you’re both comfortable & in a safe and familiar environment.
• Be gentle: Start with something like, “I’ve heard about some nasty scams going around. Have you read about them? What are your thoughts? Can we chat about how to spot them?”
• Share stories: Use real-life examples or news stories to illustrate your points. Use relatable scenarios & offer instances that show that becoming a victim has no bearing on them or their intelligence.
• Listen: Encourage them to share their own experiences or concerns whilst giving assurance that any blame should lie firmly with the criminal.

Your initial conversation doesn’t need to cover everything, if anything it could be overwhelming. We suggest that you check in with your loved one often and continue the conversation regularly. This will ensure vigilance and confidence as the topic of scams remains fresh in everyone’s minds.

Share the red flags

Here are some common signs that might indicate a scam that you can share with your loved one:

• Unexpected calls or emails asking for personal information such as date of birth, address or bank details.
• Pressure to act quickly or make a decision on the spot with no chance to think.
• Requests for money or gift cards from strangers.
• Offers that seem too good to be true.

Practical tips that everyone should know

When you talk about scams, offer these helpful hints:

• Never give out personal information over the phone or email.
• Take time to think before making decisions, especially financial ones. If it’s genuine they won’t mind if you call back.
• If something feels off, it probably is – trust your gut!
• It’s okay to hang up on callers who make you feel uncomfortable or delete suspicious messages.

What if they’ve already been scammed?

If your loved one has fallen victim to a scam, remember:

• Don’t blame them – scammers are very cunning, & no one is immune as they know exactly what they are doing.
• Encourage them to report it to the police and their bank. Offer to help or support them with this.
• Give emotional support – being scammed can be embarrassing & upsetting. Signpost them to further help such as counselling if needed.

How Phonely can help

At Phonely, we’re committed to keeping you and your loved ones safe from scams. Our CallGuard system helps block potential scam calls from every angle, giving you peace of mind. Plus, we’re always here to offer advice on how to protect yourself from phone scams and support you where we can. If you follow us on social media or join our Facebook community, you will be kept up to date with all the details on the latest scams.

Remember, talking about scams doesn’t have to be scary or awkward. By keeping the conversation light, informative, and supportive, you can help protect those you care about. And with Phonely by your side, you’ve got an extra layer of security to rely on.

Want to learn more about staying safe from scams? Check out our other helpful blog posts or give our friendly team a call. Together, we can outsmart those nasty scammers!