The Cause

In 2022, Canadians fell victim to financial fraud and cyber scams, resulting in losses totalling over half a billion dollars. Across the border in the United States, seniors were particularly hard-hit, with scams targeting them resulting in a staggering loss of $3.1 billion in the same year. Shockingly, despite seniors aged 70 and above representing only 22% of reported scams, they suffered nearly three times the loss per person compared to other demographics, as reported by the FBI.

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the challenge of safeguarding seniors against fraud becomes increasingly daunting. How can we expect elderly citizens to navigate this digital landscape when even some Millennials and Gen Xers struggle to keep up? Despite efforts by major tech companies like Apple and Samsung to educate seniors through seminars on device usage, they remain the primary targets of fraudulent activities. This begs the question: why are seniors disproportionately affected?

The root of the problem lies in the inadequacy of basic device usage skills to combat sophisticated and coordinated scams. While large tech companies offer introductory seminars, these often fail to address the complexities of modern fraud tactics. Moreover, crucial information aimed at preventing such scams is scattered across government websites, making it inaccessible and difficult for seniors to comprehend.

At Gal Senior Care Foundation, we recognize the urgent need for comprehensive and accessible resources to protect seniors from financial fraud and cyber scams. Through our initiatives, we aim to bridge the gap by providing tailored educational programs, workshops, and resources specifically designed to empower seniors with the knowledge and skills needed to safeguard themselves in today’s digital world. Together, let’s work towards a future where seniors can enjoy their golden years without fear of falling victim to fraud.