A growing wave of online scams targeting elderly Australians during downsizing and aged-care transitions is causing financial losses and emotional distress for families, according to Bob Morton, co-founder of The Property Clearance Company.
Morton warned that scammers are increasingly exploiting emotionally vulnerable moments, particularly when older Australians or their families attempt to sell household items online through platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree.
According to Morton, many elderly people are unfamiliar with the risks associated with online marketplaces, making them more susceptible to sophisticated fraud tactics. Scammers often pose as genuine buyers, offer full asking prices, and create urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly.
“What starts as a simple attempt to sell a few items can quickly become a risky situation if people are not aware of how these scams operate.”
Common scams include fake payment confirmations, phishing links designed to steal banking information, and overpayment schemes where victims are asked to refund money that was never actually transferred. In some cases, fraudsters build trust over several interactions before exploiting victims financially.
Morton noted that downsizing and estate clearances can be particularly stressful periods for families, creating an environment where mistakes are more likely to occur. Beyond financial loss, scams can also lead to significant emotional distress and loss of trust.
He explained that while major online platforms invest heavily in safety and moderation, cybercriminals continue to adapt their methods and exploit users across digital marketplaces. Families attempting to manage clearances independently may also struggle with pricing, logistics, negotiations, and payment handling, increasing exposure to risk.
“We are seeing a rise in scammers specifically targeting older Australians during downsizing. They know this is a vulnerable time,” said Bob Morton, Co-founder, The Property Clearance Company.
To minimise these risks, Morton recommends using professional property clearance services that manage valuations, sales, donations, and disposal processes in a structured and secure manner. Such services can help reduce direct interactions with unknown buyers while ensuring valuable items are handled appropriately.
Morton urged families to remain cautious when selling items online, especially when elderly relatives are involved. He advised avoiding suspicious links, refusing unusual payment methods, and taking extra time to verify transactions before proceeding.
The warning comes amid increasing concerns globally about cybercriminals targeting vulnerable groups through digital scams, particularly during emotionally sensitive life transitions.