In 2025, phishing scams targeting Canadian seniors are reaching alarming levels. As fraudsters adopt more convincing digital tactics, older adults—often less tech-savvy—are increasingly falling victim to fraudulent emails, texts, and calls.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), phishing scams cost Canadian seniors over $43 million in 2024, a 38% increase compared to the previous year. Reports in early 2025 show no signs of slowing down. Many attacks impersonate trusted institutions such as banks, CRA (Canada Revenue Agency), or even local health authorities.
"They told me my tax return was being audited and I needed to confirm my SIN and bank info,” recalls 72-year-old Margaret Shaw from Regina. “It looked so real — I didn’t suspect anything.”
Most phishing attacks start with a convincing message — an email or text warning of account issues or missed payments. The message often includes a link that leads to a fake website nearly identical to the real one. Once the user enters their information, it is captured by scammers.
Experts say seniors are particularly at risk due to a mix of trust, unfamiliarity with digital threats, and in some cases, cognitive decline. Many are less likely to scrutinize suspicious links or question the legitimacy of government-looking emails.
The federal government has launched a nationwide education campaign in 2025, focused on digital literacy for seniors. Local libraries and community centres are hosting “Fraud Prevention Days” across provinces. Some banks have also introduced senior-friendly apps with built-in scam detection.
In addition, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has created a special task force to track and disrupt phishing networks operating both locally and abroad.
Cybersecurity experts recommend the following steps:
“Awareness is our strongest defence,” says cybercrime analyst Dr. Elisa Morneau. “If something feels off — it probably is.”
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Subscribe NowAs technology continues to evolve, so too will scam tactics. Protecting vulnerable Canadians, especially seniors, requires vigilance, education, and proactive government and community response. Staying informed can make the difference between a near miss and a financial catastrophe.
