AI-driven scams increasingly target senior citizens

Artificial intelligence is increasing the sophistication of online scams, specifically targeting senior citizens. According to a survey by AARP’s Senior Planet, only 7% of older adults feel very confident in their ability to protect personal information online, while 70% lack confidence regarding what information is safe to share with AI.

Dr. Tom Kamber, executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP, noted that AI allows scammers to create highly realistic fraudulent content. This includes mimicking professional banking or health websites and using deepfake technology to create videos of relatives in distress to solicit urgent money transfers.

Experts recommend treating personal information like cash and avoiding sharing sensitive financial or health details with AI chatbots. Recommended defenses include using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and remaining cautious of messages that create a sense of extreme urgency.