Scammers are increasingly targeting children of all ages, employing various manipulative tactics to steal money and valuables. According to Irina Zinovkina, Head of Analytical Research at Positive Technologies, these schemes range from exploiting young children’s interest in online games to preying on teenagers’ fears and vulnerabilities.

For children aged 3 to 6, scammers often focus on in-game currency and free promo codes, impersonating popular children’s bloggers or celebrities to gain their trust. These young children, who are just beginning to explore the digital world, are easily enticed by the promise of cheap or free virtual goods.

As children grow older, from 7 to 11, scammers employ more sophisticated social engineering techniques. They might pressure children into divulging sensitive information, such as passwords or bank details, by impersonating family members or authority figures. Children in this age group may also be tricked into taking out online loans and sending the money to scammers.

For children aged 12 to 15, the schemes become even more elaborate, often involving the school and impersonating school staff. Scammers may scare children into believing their parents are in trouble with the law, manipulating them into searching for valuables and handing them over to a supposed “employee.” The use of official-sounding language, such as “declare,” adds to the deception.

Older teenagers, aged 16 to 18, are often targeted with offers of illegal earnings, such as becoming “droppers” in fraudulent schemes. This involves using their bank cards to carry out illicit transactions, which can lead to criminal liability. Scammers may also resort to kidnapping scams, demanding ransom from parents.

To protect children from these scams, experts emphasize the importance of building trust and open communication. Parents should create an environment where children feel comfortable admitting mistakes and seeking help without fear of punishment. It is also crucial to educate children about the dangers of online scams and to set a good example by admitting one’s own mistakes. While technical solutions like parental controls can be helpful, children are often adept at circumventing them, making parental involvement and awareness essential.