Protecting Seniors and Vulnerable Persons from Fraud: Staying Safe and Informed
Protecting Seniors and Vulnerable Persons from Fraud: Staying Safe and Informed
Fraud aimed at seniors and vulnerable individuals is becoming more frequent and more sophisticated. Scammers often use fear, confusion, or urgency to pressure people into making quick decisions — and that can have lasting emotional and financial consequences.
At Inclusive Quality Care, we believe safety, respect, and dignity are at the heart of good care. Protecting everyone from scams starts with awareness and open conversation.
Common Scams
1. “Grandparent” or Emergency Scams
Someone calls pretending to be a grandchild or family member in trouble, asking for money urgently.
What to do: Pause and verify by calling your loved one directly before acting.
2. Government or Bank Impersonation
Scammers pose as the CRA, Service Canada, or your bank, claiming you owe money or need to update your SIN.
What to do: Official agencies will not demand immediate payment or personal details by phone or email. Hang up and call the official number yourself.
3. Lottery and Prize Scams
“You’ve won!” messages request payment or banking details to release a prize.
What to do: Legitimate contests never ask for fees. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
4. Fake Home-Care or Service Offers
Fraudsters may offer discounted in-home care, medical alert systems, or home maintenance services.
What to do: Verify company credentials and references before providing information or payment.
Scam Safety Checklist
Keep this quick checklist handy to help you slow down, verify information, and protect yourself from fraud.
- Slow down before making a decision — never share personal details out of fear or pressure.
- Call or message a trusted family member when something feels off.
- Verify unknown callers by asking questions a stranger would not know.
- Keep key contacts and emergency numbers within reach.
- Use call display and block unknown or unwanted numbers.
- Report scams to local police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
Share this checklist with family and friends to help keep your community informed and safe.
How Inclusive Quality Care Helps
At Inclusive Quality Care, we’re more than caregivers — we’re advocates for your safety and peace of mind. Our trusted professionals support our clients with compassionate care while also helping clients recognize potential risks in their daily lives.
Whether you need ongoing care, a safety check-in, or advice on protecting yourself or a loved one from fraud, we’re here to help.
Together, We Can Keep our families Safe
By sharing this information, you’re helping to build safer, more informed communities. Let’s continue to protect, support, and empower each other against fraud — one conversation at a time.