Teaching Family Members to Use Mobile Money Safely
Helping a parent, grandparent or young relative with mobile money? One simple rule, the numbers to save, and a short practice session that protects them from common scams.
Mobile money has brought banking to people who never had it, including many older relatives. It has also made them targets. Twenty minutes of practice together can save a great deal.
One simple rule
"Never tell anyone your PIN, and never type it because someone on the phone asked. If you're unsure, hang up and call me."
Save these numbers
- The provider's official customer care number, from the SIM pack or official website.
- Their bank's number, from the back of their card.
- Two trusted family members.
Practise together
- Check a balance through the official menu or app. See checking your balance.
- Send a small amount to you, reading the name on the confirmation screen aloud.
- Talk through three scams: "wrong transfer" calls, fake customer care and prize messages. See the reversal scam and fake promotions.
- Role-play a pushy caller so hanging up feels natural.
Other protections
- A strong PIN. See choosing a PIN.
- Sensible limits. See mobile money limits.
- A family code word for emergencies.
Related: protecting older parents from scams. For more, see our guide to mobile money and banking scams.
Frequently asked questions
What is the one rule to teach?
Never share your PIN or enter it because someone on the phone told you to. If unsure, hang up and call a family member.
Should I manage their wallet for them?
Help them set it up and understand it, but keep control with them where possible. Shared PINs create their own risks.
What numbers should they save?
The provider's official customer care number, their bank's number and a trusted family member.
Sources
- Mobile Payment Apps: How To Avoid a Scam When You Use One, US Federal Trade Commission
- Scammers Use Fake Emergencies To Steal Your Money, US Federal Trade Commission
- Scam Advice, GSMA
