When we read about online fraud in newspapers, it is not that only people of a particular age group are affected. While younger individuals may be less impacted, it is certain that senior citizens are more vulnerable. One reason is that many seniors are not as comfortable with technical aspects of modern devices.
Today, almost everyone carries a smartphone and uses it for a wide range of activities. If we look back at the history of mobile phones, it is interesting to note that India’s first mobile service was launched on 23 August 1995 by Modi Telstra, which is now Vodafone. The first mobile call in India was made on 31 July 1995 in Kolkata by the then Chief Minister of West Bengal, Jyoti Basu, who used a Nokia handset to call the Union Telecom Minister, Sukhram, in Delhi. In just about three decades, this technology has evolved tremendously—and its future possibilities are beyond imagination.
Today, we use mobile phones for financial transactions, banking, booking rail and air travel, and much more. They are also widely used for security purposes. I know several individuals who monitor their homes or businesses through cameras connected to their phones, watching live video feeds to see who is coming and going. Activities like email, designing, and even conducting Zoom meetings are now possible through this small device we hold in our hands.
Despite these conveniences, there are significant risks that require attention. Every day, newspapers report new cases of online fraud where people lose large sums of money from their bank accounts. In some cases, merely opening a suspicious message can expose all the data on your phone to fraudsters. The rise in such incidents has made the government more vigilant, issuing regular guidelines on how to stay safe. Security professionals are also offering solutions to counter these threats.
Fraudsters continue to invent new methods. One such case involved a video call from a girl who lures the recipient into inappropriate interaction and captures images before the call is disconnected. Later, another person calls, posing as an authority, and threatens to expose the individual unless money is paid. Such incidents trap unsuspecting individuals.
Certain regions like Jamtara in Jharkhand and Nuh in Haryana have gained notoriety for online scams, but such criminal activities are not limited to specific areas. Fraudsters everywhere are constantly looking for new victims, and unfortunately, senior citizens often become easy targets.
At the same time, we must also recognize the positive side of technology. When used correctly, smartphones enable us to accomplish many tasks efficiently. Meetings that once required physical presence can now be conducted from home via Zoom and other platforms. Many young people are earning money by creating content for YouTube and Instagram. Platforms like LinkedIn help individuals find jobs, and most banking services are now available online.
However, caution is essential. Since senior citizens may not always be fully aware of technical risks, they must be particularly careful. Before conducting any financial transaction or engaging with unknown callers, all possible safety measures should be considered.
The government is actively working to raise awareness. The Reserve Bank of India has published booklets such as “Raju and the Forty Thieves” and “BE(A)WARE,” which are available online on the RBI website. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also repeatedly warned people about fraudulent emails and fake notices, advising them to report such incidents immediately on the cybercrime portal rather than responding to them.
It is important to create strong passwords and keep a record of them safely, as we may forget them when needed. One useful suggestion seen in a bank’s awareness video is to create passwords using Sanskrit words. Passwords should be changed regularly, and the same password should not be used across multiple platforms.
We often use public Wi-Fi at places like airports, railway stations, and hotels. This should be avoided as such networks are not secure. If necessary, a VPN should be used.
The most accessible source of guidance is often within our own homes. Today’s younger generation is well-versed in technology and can teach us a great deal. Additionally, those who have experienced such fraud can offer valuable practical advice.
We should carefully follow news reports and social media updates about online fraud. This is an unfortunate downside of the modern digital age. While it may not be possible to ensure complete protection, staying alert and taking basic precautions can significantly reduce the risk.
Author
The author is the founder of the Never Say Retire mission. In order to achieve this goal, he also runs this website and his Facebook group Never Say Retire Forum has Hundreds and Thousands of members today.
