Mobile Safety Tips for Seniors
Because most scams today start with a phone in your hand.
If you're over 60, chances are your mobile phone is now your main gateway to the world. You use it to read the news, check your bank balance, order groceries, and chat with family on WhatsApp or FaceTime.
But cybercriminals know that, too.
They’re no longer just sending emails. They’re texting you fake links. Calling you pretending to be the bank. Sending WhatsApp messages claiming your grandchild is in trouble.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe on your smartphone.
Why seniors are being targeted through their phones
More than ever, scammers are focusing on mobile phones. Why?
It’s easier to impersonate real contacts over text or WhatsApp
People are more likely to click quickly on a phone screen
Mobile scams are harder to detect than desktop ones
Seniors often don’t expect fraud to come through simple messages or calls
And because many older adults now prefer phones to computers, criminals follow where the attention is.
5 Mobile Safety Habits Every Senior Should Know
1. Never click on links in text messages from unknown senders
If you get an SMS that says:
“Your account has been locked. Tap here to unlock it.”
Don’t.
Even if it says it’s from your bank, utility company, or a government agency — don’t click.
Go to the official app or call the official number to check.
2. Don’t trust every call — even if it looks like it’s from the bank
Scammers can fake phone numbers to make it seem like your bank or Social Security is calling.
They might say:
“We’ve detected fraud on your card. Please give us your account number to confirm.”
Hang up. Then call your bank directly using the number on the back of your card.
3. Watch out for WhatsApp and Telegram scams
A common trick:
A message comes in from an unknown number saying:
“Hi Grandma, I lost my phone. This is my new number. Can you help me pay something urgent?”
Always verify by calling your loved one’s original number or speaking to someone else in the family. Never send money to someone just because they say they’re family.
4. Use a lock screen and PIN
If your phone is ever lost or stolen, a lock screen with a PIN or fingerprint is your first defense.
Also:
Don’t share your phone PIN with anyone you don’t fully trust
Avoid using simple codes like 1234 or your birth year
5. Keep apps and the phone updated
Updates often include fixes for security flaws. Set your phone to update automatically, or ask a family member to help once a month.
Tools that can help
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on banking and email apps
Use a trusted mobile antivirus app
Turn on scam protection settings on your phone (iPhone and Android both have built-in options to silence unknown or spam callers)
Ask your children or grandchildren to help you set these up. One 10-minute session can prevent a scam from succeeding.
The bottom line
You don’t need to be a tech expert to protect yourself. You just need to be cautious, slow down before clicking or replying, and know that it’s okay to say, “Let me check with someone first.”
Criminals want you to panic. Your power lies in staying calm.
About AKATI Sekurity
We believe everyone—at every age—deserves to feel safe using technology. As a global cybersecurity services provider, AKATI Sekurity works with families, communities, and businesses to promote safe digital habits. Visit www.akati.com/cyber-hygiene for more tools and tips.
