I’m 89 Years Old. They Tried to Scam Me Over the Phone—But They Didn’t Know I Was an Engineer.

I am 89 years old. I received a phone call today someone tried to scam me, but they werent prepared for an old engineer.

That Tuesday morning, I was enjoying a cup of mint tea and finishing up a crossword puzzle, just as I have for years. Im 93 now, yet my mind is still as sharp as it was back when I programmed computers in the 1960s.

Mrs. Williamson? came a slippery voice on the other end of the line. Were calling regarding some suspicious activity on your account. Weve detected some irregular transactions.

Here we go, I thought. Another one.

Oh, goodness me! I replied, putting on my best trembling old lady voice. What should I do, dear boy?

Well just need you to confirm your bank card number for security.

Of course, of course let me just find my glasses I let the silence stretch a bit. Actually, why dont you tell me the last four digits, and Ill confirm if thats right? Just to be sure youre really from the bank.

There was a distinct awkward pause.

Thats not how it works, madam. We need the full number.

I see I sighed. Just tell me something are you calling from a standard VoIP line or is this end-to-end encrypted?

Another silence.

Madam, I just need you to

Only asking because, as were speaking I went on calmly Ive already traced your IP address. Rather interesting seems youre at an internet café. You know, I spent forty years designing security systems. Im a systems engineer. Teaches a person a thing or two.

I madam

And heres another interesting bit Ive just activated a script on my line. Its currently extracting data from your device. Shall I read out your contacts list, or would you prefer I send it directly to the authorities?

I heard a swallow.

Thats illegal

Illegal? I chuckled. Lad, I was writing code before your grandmother was even out of nappies. And for the record, Im recording this entire conversation metadata included. Best part? I can see your screen. Hello there, Simon. Nice profile photo. Does your mother know what you get up to?

Click.

He hung up.

I laughed so hard I nearly spilled my tea. Afterwards, I rang my grandson the one who likes to joke that I dont understand technology.

Oliver I told him when he answered I just outsmarted a scammer who tried to rob me. Still think your grans clueless about the internet?

I suppose todays lesson is this: just because youre old doesnt mean youve lost your wits. Sometimes, experience is the best firewall of all.