In today’s digital age, online exploitation has become a widespread issue that affects people of all ages. However, some segments of internet users can be more susceptible than others to online exploitation; seniors and children are particularly vulnerable. Technological advances and the prevalence of internet-enabled devices bring with them an alarming rise in cybercrime, including online fraud, financial exploitation, and child sexual abuse.
Those most vulnerable to online exploitation in our society are children and the elderly. Here’s what you need to know about the risks and how to protect them.
Online Exploitation is a Growing Problem for Children and Seniors
Globally, online exploitation has escalated rapidly in recent years. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), reports of online child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) soared to over 45 million in 2020 alone—a stark increase compared to previous years.
These figures point to the global scale of the issue, with more than 1 million reports in 2014, climbing to tens of millions today. In the U.S. alone, children are increasingly becoming targets, with 16% of young adults reporting that they were victims of some form of online sexual abuse before turning 18.
UNICEF reports that 80% of children in several countries feel unsafe or fear exploitation when using online platforms. The rise in AI technologies has further complicated the issue by enabling the creation of “deepfake” images, which exploit children without their knowledge. AI-driven chatbots are also increasingly being used to groom children,
Additionally, the surge in digital device use during the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to an even greater risk of exploitation. Children aged 13-17 spend an average of 7 hours a day online, often unsupervised, making them prime targets for online predators. The rapid expansion of social media, gaming platforms, and online learning environments creates multiple channels through which offenders can access vulnerable minors.
Children aren’t the only vulnerable population at risk for online exploitation.
The digital landscape is fraught with financial risks for seniors. A 2022 report from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center revealed that older adults (aged 60+) accounted for the highest total dollar loss in online scams, losing more than $3 billion in one year. Financial scams targeting seniors often involve phishing attacks, fake tech support scams, and romance fraud.
Many seniors fall prey to financial exploitation through tech support scams, phishing emails, or even trusted individuals such as caregivers or family members. Reports have shown that seniors are increasingly targeted as technology evolves due to perceived lower levels of tech-savviness. Seniors over the age of 65 are often tricked into revealing personal information or transferring funds to scammers posing as legitimate service providers or government representatives.
The combination of these rising threats against both children and seniors underscores the need for increased awareness, protective measures, and education on how to safeguard personal and financial information in an increasingly digital world.
By understanding the scale and prevalence of these issues, we can better protect our loved ones from online exploitation and abuse.
How to Protect Seniors from Online Scams and Financial Exploitation
Seniors may have spent years building their financial security, but online scammers always find new ways to target older adults. Protecting seniors from online scams and financial exploitation is crucial, as older adults are frequently targeted due to the belief that they may be less tech-savvy.
Recognizing Common Online Scams Targeting Seniors
Many online scams involve unsolicited contact from people pretending to be tech support, government officials, or even loved ones. Scammers use various tactics to exploit seniors, but being aware of common schemes can help seniors stay safe.
Tech Support Scams
- These scams typically involve a fake “technician” who claims a computer has a virus. They will ask for remote access to fix the issue, often demanding payment for a non-existent problem.
- How to Avoid: Remember that legitimate tech companies will not contact you to say something is wrong with your computer. Do not grant remote access to anyone you do not know personally.
Romance Scams
- Online dating can be a great way to meet people, but romance scammers often prey on lonely seniors, building trust before asking for money.
- How to Avoid: Never send money or gifts to someone you’ve only met online, no matter how convincing their story may seem.
Government Impersonation Scams
- Scammers may pretend to be from the IRS or Social Security, claiming you owe money or face legal action.
- How to Avoid: Government agencies will never request personal information or payments via phone or email. Always verify any claim through official channels.
Protecting Personal Information Online
One of the easiest ways for scammers to steal from seniors is by gaining access to personal information.
Keep Personal Information Private: Never give out your Social Security number, banking information, or passwords to anyone over the phone, email, or online.
Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Consider setting up fraud alerts with your financial institutions.
Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
Creating strong passwords and using two-factor authentication (2FA) can help protect online accounts.
- Use Complex Passwords: Combine upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols to make your passwords harder to guess. Avoid common phrases or personal details like your birthday.
- Enable 2FA: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification, such as a text message code, when logging in.
Avoiding Financial Exploitation from Trusted Individuals
Unfortunately, not all threats come from strangers. Financial exploitation by family members or caregivers is also a common threat for seniors. Be cautious about who you trust with access to your financial information.
- Warning Signs: Be alert to signs of exploitation, such as sudden changes in your financial behavior or pressure from someone to change your will or financial accounts.
- Create a Support Network: Involve a trusted family member or financial professional to oversee transactions, ensuring no one person has full control over your assets.
The Mandated Reporter’s Duty to Report Senior Financial Exploitation
Mandated reporters are individuals who have a legal duty to report suspected abuse or neglect of a senior, including financial abuse or online exploitation. Mandated reporters often come into regular contact with seniors in a professional capacity, such as bank tellers, financial advisors, fiduciaries, medical professionals, and through work at senior communities or care facilities.
If you are a mandated reporter of senior abuse, it’s critical to understand the risks of financial exploitation that seniors face. Take mandated reporter training to know the signs of suspected elder abuse and understand where and how to report it.
Learn more about how to protect elders against financial fraud and abuse.
How to Protect Children from Online Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (CSEA)
The rise in technology has given predators new ways to exploit children online, making it critical for parents to be vigilant. Protecting children from online sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA) requires knowledge of the risks, understanding the signs of grooming, and establishing preventive measures.
Understanding Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse
Online CSEA involves using the internet to exploit children for sexual gratification or financial gain. This can include the production of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM), online grooming, and live streaming of abuse. Children are often targeted through social media, gaming platforms, and chat apps.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) reported over 36 million cases of online child sexual abuse materials in 2023, a dramatic increase from just 1 million in 2014.
AI-Generated Exploitation is on the rise. Predators now use AI to create deepfake images of children, leading to further exploitation and revictimization.
How to Spot the Signs of Online Grooming
Grooming is when predators build relationships with children online, often by pretending to be their friend or someone they can trust. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of grooming to stop abuse before it occurs.
- Secretive Behavior: If your child becomes secretive about their online activity, refuses to share who they’re talking to, or spends significantly more time online, this could be a warning sign.
- Unexplained Gifts: Predators often send gifts or money as part of their grooming strategy. If your child receives something unexpected, ask them about it.
Protecting Children on Social Media and Gaming Platforms
Children and teens spend a lot of time on social media and gaming platforms, which can be a gateway for predators to contact them. Setting boundaries and monitoring their activity can reduce the risk of exploitation.
- Parental Controls: Use parental controls to monitor what apps your child is using and restrict access to age-inappropriate content.
- Limit Chat Functions: Disable in-game chat functions with strangers on gaming platforms to reduce your child’s exposure to potential predators.
- Privacy Settings: Ensure your child’s social media accounts are set to private, and explain the importance of only accepting friend requests from people they know.
Encourage Open Communication About Online Risks
The most effective way to protect a child in your care is through open communication. Many children don’t report uncomfortable online interactions because they fear getting in trouble or feel embarrassed. Assure them that their safety is your top priority, and they can always talk to you if they feel unsafe online.
- Discuss Boundaries: Have regular conversations about not sharing personal information or photos online, even with people who seem trustworthy.
- Supportive Environment: Let your child know they won’t be judged for anything that happens online, and encourage them to report any suspicious or uncomfortable interactions.
Reporting Online CSEA
If you suspect your child is a victim of online exploitation, it’s important to act quickly.
- Report to Authorities: Contact local law enforcement or submit a CyberTipline report to NCMEC.
- DHS Know2Protect Tipline: You can also call the Know2Protect Tipline at 833-591-KNOW (5669) for further investigation by Homeland Security.
The Mandated Reporter’s Duty to Report Online CSEA
Mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect must also understand the risks of online CSEA and the signs of suspected abuse. Mandated reporters of child abuse are often professionals who come into contact with children regularly because of their professions, such as childcare workers, teachers, and medical professionals. If you suspect abuse, neglect, or online CSEA, it’s critical to make a report immediately.
Take a mandated reporter training course so you can identify the signs of potential abuse or neglect and understand how, where, and when to make a report.
Protect the Vulnerable Online and Off
Online safety is a growing concern for both seniors and children. By recognizing common scams, understanding the risks of online child sexual exploitation, and implementing preventive measures, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Stay informed, monitor online activity, and maintain open communication to safeguard your family from online exploitation and abuse.
Remember, knowledge and vigilance are your best tools, whether you’re protecting seniors from financial fraud or children from online predators.
