Phone scams are a pervasive threat, especially targeting older adults. In 2020, American seniors lost over $193 million to phone scams. (experian.com) With the increasing sophistication of these scams, it's crucial to equip your parent with the tools and knowledge to protect themselves.
1. How Can Built-in iPhone Features Help Block Unwanted Calls?
iPhones offer several built-in features to help identify and block potential scam calls:
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Silence Unknown Callers: This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri Suggestions directly to voicemail. To activate:
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Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on.
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Call Blocking & Identification: This allows third-party apps to identify and block spam calls. To enable:
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Navigate to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification and toggle on the desired apps.
These features can significantly reduce unwanted calls. (support.apple.com)
2. What Are the Limitations of Built-in Call Blocking?
While these features are helpful, they may not catch all scam calls, especially those from numbers that appear local or familiar. Scammers often spoof caller IDs to seem trustworthy. (experian.com)
3. How Can Third-Party Apps Enhance Scam Protection?
Third-party apps can provide more comprehensive protection by maintaining extensive databases of known scam numbers and using AI to detect new threats. Popular options include:
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Robokiller: This app identifies and blocks spam calls, offering real-time alerts and detailed reports.
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Hiya: Provides caller ID and spam blocking features, with a large database of known scam numbers.
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Truecaller: Offers spam detection and caller ID services, with a community-driven database.
These apps can be downloaded from the App Store and often require a subscription for full features.
4. How Can You Educate Your Parent About Scam Tactics?
Educating your parent is vital in preventing scams:
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Recognize Common Scams: Teach them about common tactics, such as prize scams, tech support fraud, and impersonation of government agencies.
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Verify Unknown Callers: Encourage them to hang up and call back using a known number if they receive unsolicited calls.
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Never Share Personal Information: Remind them to avoid sharing personal or financial details over the phone unless they initiated the call.
Regular discussions about potential scams can keep them vigilant. (experian.com)
5. What Additional Measures Can You Take to Protect Your Parent?
Beyond technological solutions, consider these steps:
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Set Up a Family Safe Word: Establish a secret word known only to family members. If someone calls claiming to be a family member in distress, your parent can ask for the safe word to verify their identity. (trustboxai.com)
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Limit Online Exposure: Advise them to avoid sharing personal information or voice recordings online, as these can be exploited by scammers. (trustboxai.com)
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Regularly Review Bank Statements: Encourage them to monitor financial accounts for unauthorized transactions.
6. How Can You Monitor and Support Your Parent Remotely?
If you're unable to be physically present, consider:
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Setting Up Remote Alerts: Some apps and services allow you to receive notifications about your parent's phone activity.
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Regular Check-Ins: Schedule frequent calls to discuss any suspicious activities or concerns.
By combining these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of your parent falling victim to phone scams.
Remember, while technology plays a crucial role, ongoing education and open communication are key to ensuring your parent's safety.
Highlights:
- 6 Ways to Protect Your Parents From Phone Scams - Experian, Published on Wednesday, April 06
- 7 Ways to Protect Your Elderly Parents from AI Phone Scams
- How to Protect Your Elderly Parent from Phone Scams | KindWatch, Published on Thursday, January 08
