Tejasvi Manoj: Empowering Seniors Against Financial Scams
Plano, Texas — At just 17 years old, Tejasvi Manoj embodies the spirit of a modern teenager: bustling with school responsibilities, juggling college applications, and like many of her peers, figuring out her path in life. Yet, her senior year in high school has taken a unique turn. Instead of the typical teenage pursuits, Manoj has dedicated much of her time to an impactful mission: educating older adults about the dangers of financial scams.
A Personal Catalyst
Manoj’s journey into this realm began with a concerning incident involving her grandfather. He became a target of a notorious scam—an urgent text message from someone impersonating a family member, requesting a $2,000 emergency transfer. Fortunately, the alert grandparents reached out to family members before falling victim to this deception. This close call shook Manoj, prompting her to understand more about the rising threats facing elderly individuals.
"My grandfather’s experience opened my eyes," she shared with CBS News. It was this incident that fueled her passionate drive to create necessary resources for older adults.
Shield Seniors: A Creative Solution
In response to her grandfather’s experience, Manoj set out to develop a digital platform called Shield Seniors. This app and accompanying website serve as valuable tools that demonstrate various online scams and educate seniors on how to report them. By utilizing her digital skills, she aims to bridge the informational gap that often leaves older adults vulnerable to financial fraud.
Innovations in Technology
Manoj’s tech initiative doesn’t stop at education. She has integrated artificial intelligence into her app, allowing it to identify potential scam communications. "Users can input a text message and ask the app to assess its safety," she explained during a demonstration of the platform. The AI-powered features aim to provide immediate and practical assistance, alerting users of possible threats.
The Growing Threat of Scams
Manoj’s research reflects a troubling trend: the use of artificial intelligence by scammers to increase the authenticity of their attacks. "Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using AI to manipulate their schemes," she pointed out, shedding light on the manner in which technology is exploited for malicious purposes. The numbers are just as alarming, with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reporting that older adults who reported scams lost a staggering $4.8 billion in 2024—a figure that has doubled in just five years.
In one of the classes she conducts, a participant shared, "As you get older, you feel more vulnerable. You become less computer savvy, which makes you an easier target." Her meetings not only empower seniors with knowledge but also foster a sense of community and support.
Popularity and Recognition
Manoj’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In July, she delivered a powerful TEDx talk, articulating her vision and experiences. Most recently, she graced the cover of Time magazine as its "Kid of the Year," an accolade that adds to her credibility and reach. "I found out 12 hours before the article released," she recalled in astonishment. The recognition has amplified her mission, giving her a platform to reach a broader audience.
The Road Ahead
Despite the challenges, including securing funding for her app, Manoj remains optimistic. She hopes that the visibility from her recognition will help launch Shield Seniors by year’s end. "My mission is to make sure older adults are aware of cybersecurity threats," she stated emphatically, reinforcing her commitment to protecting those at risk.
As she continues her quest to utilize technology for social good, Manoj stands as an inspiring example of how youth can drive meaningful change. Her blend of empathy, tech-savviness, and activism paints a hopeful picture for the future of elder safety against the complexities of an increasingly digital world.