7 Smart Ways to Stop Scams and Protect Your Family’s Future

Aging, caregiving, and planning for the future are emotionally heavy topics. But with just a few tech-savvy precautions, you can help protect a loved one (or yourself) from fraud, confusion, and unintended loss — all while preserving dignity and autonomy.

Technology can make life easier and more connected, but it also opens doors to new kinds of scams. Voice cloning, fake emergencies, and digital fraud are on the rise. Older adults and people who are grieving might not have the defenses to spot a potential scam. The good news? A few thoughtful habits can keep you and your loved ones safe without living in fear.

1. When a Familiar Voice Calls for Help, Verify

Scammers can now clone voices using just a few seconds of audio from social media or voicemail. They might call pretending to be a child, spouse, or grandchild in trouble.

If that happens, pause before reacting. Hang up and call the real person directly using a number you already know. If you can’t reach them, check with another family member or friend. Never send money, gift cards, or wire transfers under pressure — that’s the biggest red flag.

2. Build Digital Guardrails, Not Walls

You don’t have to give up financial independence to stay safe. Many banks and fintech tools allow view-only access for a trusted family member. That means they can see account activity or get alerts, but can’t move money.

Set up transaction notifications for large purchases or new device logins. Some accounts even let you require a second confirmation for transfers over a certain amount.

These small changes let others watch out for you, without taking over.

3. Make a Simple Digital Legacy Plan

Imagine how stressful it can be for loved ones trying to locate passwords or online accounts after someone passes. A little preparation goes a long way to protecting your family after you’re gone.

Create a list of your online accounts, social media, and essential files. Store it safely in a password manager, or activate tools like Apple’s Digital Legacy or Google’s Inactive Account Manager.

Add a short “letter of instruction” to explain your wishes. Include where your documents are stored, who to contact, and any special guidance.

4. Update Legal and Beneficiary Information

Wills and trusts aren’t just for the wealthy, but for anyone who wants to make things easier for their family. Online estate-planning tools can help you set up the basics, or you can work with an attorney for more complex needs.

Check that beneficiaries on bank accounts, insurance, and retirement plans are current. These designations usually override what’s written in a will, so it’s worth reviewing them every year or after significant life changes.

5. Stay Scam-Savvy With Practical Digital Habits

Most scams rely on urgency and fear. Build habits that give you time to think:

• Hover over links before clicking to check the real sender.
• Use two-factor authentication on email and financial accounts.
• Keep your phone and computer updated — many updates include security patches.
• Try a “practice run” with a family member to learn how to spot fake texts or links.

Confidence grows with familiarity, and that’s the best protection of all.

6. Watch for Subtle Changes in Behavior

If a loved one starts missing bills, making impulsive purchases, or seeming confused by financial matters, it may be time to step in, gently.

Set up a shared review of accounts or bring in a financial adviser who can mediate. Tools like Carefull or joint dashboards allow oversight without removing control.

These systems prevent mistakes and ensure decisions stay collaborative, not corrective.

7. Keep the Conversation Open

The hardest part isn’t setting up tech, it’s talking about it. Approach these topics with empathy: “I want to help make sure your wishes are honored” feels very different from “I’m worried you’ll get scammed.”

Revisit plans every year, especially when life or health circumstances shift. Share documents with multiple trusted people to avoid single points of failure.

Learn More About Protecting Your Legacy 

Technology should bring peace of mind, not anxiety. With simple habits, you can help ensure that what’s meant for your loved ones stays in your family.

Beyond staying alert to scams, planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. Create a clear roadmap that covers not just your finances, but also your health care wishes, digital accounts, and funeral plans. Review your will and beneficiaries, talk openly with loved ones about what matters most, and use secure online tools to keep everything organized. A few thoughtful steps today can prevent confusion tomorrow, ensuring your hard work, values, and love are passed on exactly as you intend.