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A New Year, A New Vigilance: Protecting Seniors from Rising AI Scams in 2026

  • Writer: Wes Clark
    Wes Clark
  • Jan 12
  • 2 min read

As we welcome the new year, Golden Shield reminds families of a growing threat: sophisticated AI-powered scams targeting older adults. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), AI scams represent one of the fastest-growing threats to senior safety and financial security.


The New Face of Fraud

These aren't the robocalls of yesterday. Criminals now use AI to clone voices, create deepfake videos, and craft convincing phishing messages. As NCOA warns, "AI scams can be incredibly convincing because they use personal information and realistic-sounding voices or images to trick victims."


The most common tactics include:


Voice Cloning: Scammers use AI to mimic a grandchild's or family member's voice, calling seniors with fake emergencies and urgent requests for money.

Deepfake Videos: Realistic video messages appear to show trusted figures making fraudulent requests or offering fake investment opportunities.

AI-Enhanced Phishing: Emails and texts perfectly mimic writing styles and include personal details to create convincing scenarios.

As NCOA notes, "These scams work because they exploit our natural instinct to help loved ones and our trust in what we see and hear."


Watch for Warning Signs

  • Urgent requests for money via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency

  • Calls from "family members" who discourage calling them back

  • Requests to keep conversations secret

  • High-pressure tactics demanding immediate action

"Trust your instincts," NCOA advises. "If something feels wrong, it probably is—even if the voice sounds exactly like your grandson."


How Golden Shield Can Help

At Golden Shield, we provide the protection seniors need against evolving threats:

  • Real-time fraud monitoring and alerts to phishing links

  • One-click scans against any computer messages, providing real time opinions on incoming messages and their authenticity

  • Trusted contact communication for when uncertainty or fear creeps in

  • Educational articles on the most recent trends and how to spot them


Take Action This Year

The NCOA emphasizes that "education and preparation are the best defenses against AI scams." This year, establish a family code word, set up regular check-ins, and discuss these threats openly with older loved ones.


Don't let AI scams steal your peace of mind in 2026.


 
 
 

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