Grandfather’s Money Stolen: A Grandson’s Fight Against Scammers
In a heart-wrenching tale of betrayal and loss, Ian Gardner, a retired mechanical engineer and army veteran from Coatbridge, near Glasgow, fell victim to scammers who stole thousands of pounds from him. However, the impact of this cruel act went far beyond monetary loss for the pensioner. It stripped him of his independence and left him feeling isolated and distressed during his final years. Ian, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 78, used his computer to write his memoirs and stay connected with family via Skype. His computer held decades of cherished photographs and documented his life extensively, from his service with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers in Malaya to his years as an engineer at Glasgow Central Station.
The devastating effects of the scam on Ian did not go unnoticed by his grandson, Jordan Reid. Jordan was deeply affected by his grandfather’s experience and was determined to ensure that some good came out of the tragedy. He discovered that Ian had fallen victim to a ransomware attack, where fraudsters infiltrated his PC and wiped his files shortly before his death. This incident not only cost Ian thousands of pounds but also robbed him of his connection to his cherished memories and loved ones. Jordan recalled, “The computer was a huge part of his life until scammers wiped everything. After the incident, he only really used the computer to play solitaire.”
Driven by a desire to protect others from falling prey to scammers, Jordan embarked on a mission to create a cybersecurity service specifically designed to safeguard people over 50 from fraud. Recognizing that older adults are often targeted by scammers due to their accumulated wealth, Jordan co-founded SENGUARD, a Glasgow-based cybersecurity subscription service, with cyber security expert Grant McAdam. The service is tailored to the unique needs of individuals aged 50 and over, offering features such as voice-guided navigation for users with visual impairments and clear, jargon-free instructions.
The Rise of Scams Targeting Older Adults
Reports from Independent Age reveal that scams cost older people in the UK an average of nearly £4,000 each. Additionally, a study by Age UK found that 1.2 million older adults lie awake at night worrying about online fraud. Jordan emphasized that scammers target older individuals not because they lack technical savvy, but because they know where the money is. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), scammers have found new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and create sophisticated scams that can deceive even the most capable individuals.
Speaking about the impact of AI on scam tactics, Jordan explained, “AI is a game changer for scammers. They can create fake websites, emails, or even phone calls in seconds, designed to exploit the weakest links.” From fake delivery texts to convincing phone scams about unpaid bills, the tactics employed by scammers are constantly evolving, causing stress, anxiety, and isolation for their victims.
Protecting Older Adults from Scams: The Mission of SENGUARD
SENGUARD aims to empower older adults and their families by providing simple and accessible tools to stay safe online. The company’s mission is deeply rooted in Jordan’s personal experience with his grandfather’s scam ordeal. By offering a user-friendly cybersecurity subscription service, SENGUARD hopes to prevent others from enduring the same trauma that Ian faced in his final years. The start-up has already garnered significant recognition, securing £75,000 from the prestigious Scottish EDGE competition to support its expansion into cities across the UK.
Jordan’s vision for SENGUARD goes beyond protecting individuals from financial loss. He envisions a world where older generations can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, independence, and peace of mind. By fostering open conversations about online safety and providing practical tools to combat scammers, SENGUARD strives to make the internet a safer place for older adults. As Jordan aptly puts it, “It’s not about scaring people – it’s about restoring their confidence, protecting their independence, and giving families peace of mind by providing simple tools to stay safe online.”
In conclusion, the story of Ian Gardner and his grandson Jordan Reid serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of scams on older adults. Through his innovative cybersecurity service, Jordan is not only honoring his grandfather’s memory but also championing a cause that seeks to safeguard vulnerable individuals from falling victim to fraudsters. As SENGUARD continues to expand its reach and empower older adults with the tools to stay safe online, it stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against cybercrime.
