Scammers especially target parents and grandparents — phone scams, 'your bank' texts, 'grandchild in trouble' calls, and fake package notices. Not because they aren't smart, but because the scams are sophisticated and targeted. Here's how to help them stay safe — without taking away their independence.
• 'Your bank': a call or text about 'suspicious activity' asking for a code or details • 'Grandchild in trouble': a message from a 'relative' who urgently needs money • Package or customs: an SMS about a waiting parcel with a payment link • 'You won': a prize message that demands a 'handling fee' • Fake tech support: 'Your computer is infected, call now'
The key is partnership, not surveillance. Explain that scams are sophisticated and target everyone — young people too. Set one simple rule: 'Before you share details or click a link — send it to me, or check it in Phishy.' That lets them keep using their phone independently, with a safety net.
No real organization — a bank, a government agency, a courier — asks for a password, verification code, or card details via a link or an unsolicited call. If they ask, it's a scam. Teach your parents this one rule, and it blocks most fraud.
Phishy gives parents a simple tool: paste or share a suspicious message and get a clear answer in seconds — safe, suspicious, or scam — in large text and plain language. ⭐ And Family Mode: you connect to your parent's device (with their consent) and get an alert if a scam reaches them — without ever seeing their private messages. You're there for them, even from afar, without invading their privacy.
Help them with a simple tool they run themselves, plus Family Mode that alerts you only when a scam appears — without showing you their messages. Partnership, not surveillance.
A real organization won't ask for a code, password, or card details in an unsolicited call. Hang up and call the bank using the number on the back of the card. Check messages in the free checker.