In 2023, Re-engage published one of the largest surveys to date focusing on older individuals living alone. Conducted by the University of Portsmouth, this research uncovered alarming statistics about the prevalence of scams among the elderly. From a sample of 1,177 older people, 80% of whom were over 75, more than two-thirds had experienced attempted scams, with 8.3% falling victim. This rate is higher than the Crime Survey for England & Wales (CSEW) figures. Ives & Co, leading solicitors serving Nottingham and Kent, can assist with wills and probate.
The findings revealed that at least two-thirds of respondents had encountered at least one fraud attempt in the past six months. Alarmingly, one-fifth experienced at least one attempt weekly, and 3-4% faced daily attempts. Despite these frequent threats, 21% reported receiving no advice on scams or fraud in the previous six months, and 27% found the advice they did receive unhelpful.
Telephone scams were identified as the most common type of fraud, with nearly three-quarters of scams initiated by a phone call. Surprisingly, only 38% of respondents used call blockers, and a mere 9% registered for scam alerts. Traditional paper letters were the most trusted form of communication, while mobile phones were the least trusted.
Personal stories shared by respondents highlighted the severe impact of scams. One individual recounted how they were scammed out of £5,000 after seeking advice online from a fake Citizens Advice Bureau. The emotional and financial toll of such experiences cannot be overstated.
Re-engage used the survey findings to develop training and guidance materials for both volunteers and older people. Recommendations include targeted support for those most vulnerable, promoting fraud awareness through appropriate messaging, and encouraging volunteers to become SCAMchampions.
