Online Shopping Safety for Seniors: How to Avoid Scams

Shopping online puts the world at your fingertips, whether it is ordering groceries, finding the perfect gift, or enjoying the convenience of home delivery. But as online shopping grows, so do the risks, especially with scammers increasingly targeting older adults.

The good news? Protecting yourself does not have to be complicated. With a few simple precautions and smart habits, seniors can shop with confidence and enjoy all the benefits of the digital marketplace without worry.

Shop Only on Secure, Trusted Websites

Stick to well-known retailers you already trust. Scammers often lure shoppers with “too good to be true” deals, so always be cautious. Trusted stores like Amazon, Target, Walmart, Macy’s, or Best Buy have built-in protections that make them safer choices.

If you are shopping from a smaller boutique or a site you have never used, take a few minutes to research reviews, check for clear return policies, and confirm customer service contact details. Before entering payment information, look for “HTTPS” and a lock icon in the address bar. Many retailers also display security badges such as Norton Secured or McAfee Secure for added reassurance. If these indicators are missing, or the site just feels suspicious, do not share personal or financial information.

Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links

Be cautious with emails, texts, or social media messages that ask you to click a link, even if they look like they are from a familiar company. Scammers often disguise links to lead you to fake websites designed to steal your information. Instead, type the company’s address directly into your browser or use a trusted search engine.

Always double-check the sender’s email address. Legitimate companies use their official domains, for example, customerservice@amazon.com. If the address includes random numbers, misspellings, or comes from a generic provider like Gmail or Yahoo, it is probably a scam.

Shop Safely with Credit Cards and Monitor Statements

Whenever possible, pay with a credit card when shopping online rather than a debit card. Credit cards provide stronger fraud protection and do not directly tap into your bank account, which helps keep your money safe if something goes wrong.

Make it a habit to review your bank and credit card statements regularly, at least once a month. Catching unauthorized charges early makes it easier to resolve issues quickly.

Strengthen Your Logins with 2FA and Password Managers

Strong, unique passwords are the first line of defense against scammers. Using the same password across multiple accounts makes it easier for hackers because if one account is compromised, they can often access others. A password manager helps solve this problem by generating complex passwords (with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols) and storing them securely, so you do not have to remember each one.

For added protection, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. With 2FA, logging in requires not only your password but also a second step, such as entering a code sent to your phone or approving a notification in an app. This way, even if a scammer steals your password, they will not be able to log in without that second piece of information. Together, strong passwords, a password manager, and 2FA create a powerful shield against online fraud.

Watch for Red Flags and High-Pressure Tactics

Scammers often use fear, urgency, or promises of quick money to pressure people into acting fast. If you ever feel rushed, pause and take a moment before acting.

Another major red flag is being asked to pay in unusual ways such as with wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps. Legitimate businesses will never require these methods. If something does not feel right whether it is a “limited-time offer” or an odd payment request, walk away and verify with a trusted source.

Remember, scammers thrive on getting you to act fast without thinking; slowing down is one of your strongest defenses.

Why Staying Vigilant Matters

Elder fraud is a growing problem. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, adults over 60 filed 147,127 complaints in 2024, resulting in $4.8 billion in losses—a 43% increase from 2023. These numbers show why staying vigilant online is more important than ever.

The best defenses are simple: verify contacts, question suspicious requests, and report anything that does not feel right. You can report online shopping or internet crimes to:

• The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Your state’s Attorney General’s office

By being cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, securing your accounts, and leaning on trusted family or friends for a second opinion, you can shop online with confidence and peace of mind.