Since 2024, the Internet Crime Complaint Center has received a 17.34% increase in complaints, with Americans over 60 reporting $7.7 Billion in losses, a 34% increase since 2024.
This drastic raise comes with the rapid quality-improvement of AI scams and deepfakes, and American seniors are especially vulnerable to becoming victims to these traps.
Locally, Mohammad, a Westerville North High School student and 2026 Global Scholars Honorable Mention recipient, noticed an increase in these scams in his city and wanted to provide more resources for senior citizens unaware of the tactics used by scammers and the dangers of AI.
“Artificial intelligence is becoming more common in everyday life, and many seniors are not aware of how it can be used in scams or misinformation,” says Mohammed. “I wanted to help community members feel more confident and safe when interacting with digital content.”
The AI-awareness workshop took place on February 1, 2026, and welcomed over 40 senior participants. The event was held at Westerville Public Library, after personally inviting older adults in the community to the workshop.
Taking about an hour, Mohammed’s itinerary was filled with open discussion, hands-on AI-identification exercises, and surveys to track improvement and content understanding. By the end of the programming, 100% of attendees reported feeling confident or very confident in their ability to identify AI-generated content.
“Many participants felt more informed and relieved after learning practical ways to identify scams and misleading content,” says Mohammed. “They appreciated having a safe space to ask questions about new technology.”
Mohammad developed his workshop to be interactive and memorable for seniors. After reviewing and sound-boarding workshop format and activities with David Johnston, a WNHS physics and chemistry teacher, Mohammad furthered his outreach by developing an educational website focused on AI-scam spotting, as well.
Mohammad’s website, shared with workshop attendees and open to anyone interested, allows users to submit screenshots or photos of suspicious digital content and receive guidance and insight, as well as access FAQs on digital security and AI safety.
Access Mohammad’s AI safety website: https://heelo-cyber.github.io/Aisafeness/