* Fly-by-night business: This refers to a company or organization that is unreliable, untrustworthy, and often operates in a shady or illegal manner. They are often temporary, disappearing quickly after scamming people.
* Fleeces the elderly: This means that the business takes advantage of older people, often through scams or fraudulent schemes. Elderly people are often targeted because they may be more vulnerable due to factors like loneliness, trust, or financial insecurity.
Therefore, the entire idiom means that dishonest and unreliable businesses prey on the elderly, often exploiting their vulnerabilities to steal their money or possessions.
Here are some examples of how this idiom might be used:
* "The police are investigating a fly-by-night business that has been fleecing the elderly by promising unrealistic investment returns."
* "It's a shame how some fly-by-night businesses take advantage of the elderly, who are often trusting and vulnerable."
The idiom highlights the unfortunate reality that some businesses operate with the sole intention of exploiting vulnerable populations, including the elderly. It serves as a warning to be cautious and wary of any businesses that seem too good to be true, especially when dealing with elderly individuals.