Top Scams That Target Seniors and How to Stay Protected
As technology evolves, so do the tactics used by scammers—and seniors are often the primary target. Whether it’s through phone calls, emails, or door-to-door visits, scammers prey on older adults with schemes that seem urgent or too good to be true. Understanding the most common scams can help protect yourself or a loved one from falling victim.
1. Medicare or Health Insurance Scams
How it works:
Scammers pose as Medicare representatives to get personal information like Social Security numbers or banking details. They may claim they’re sending new cards or offering fake medical services.
Red flag:
Medicare will never call to ask for your personal information or payment details over the phone.
2. Tech Support Scams
How it works:
A pop-up or cold call warns you that your computer has a virus. The “tech support” agent asks to remotely access your device or requests payment for unnecessary services.
Red flag:
Legitimate companies like Microsoft or Apple will never initiate unsolicited tech support calls.
3. Grandparent Scams
How it works:
A scammer pretends to be your grandchild in trouble, needing money urgently for bail, medical bills, or travel. They may beg you not to tell their parents.
Red flag:
Always verify with another family member. Scammers often use vague details or emotionally charged language to rush you.
4. Sweepstakes & Lottery Scams
How it works:
You’re told you’ve won a prize, but to claim it, you must pay a fee or provide personal information.
Red flag:
You should never have to pay to receive legitimate winnings. If you didn’t enter a contest, you didn’t win.
5. Romance Scams
How it works:
Someone meets you on a dating site or social media and builds trust before asking for money—often claiming an emergency or travel issue.
Red flag:
Be cautious with online relationships that quickly become emotional or financially dependent.
6. IRS or Government Impersonation Scams
How it works:
You receive a threatening phone call claiming you owe taxes or are in legal trouble. The caller demands immediate payment or personal information.
Red flag:
The IRS will never demand immediate payment over the phone or threaten arrest without official correspondence.
7. Fake Charities
How it works:
Scammers exploit your generosity by posing as charities, often after natural disasters or around the holidays.
Red flag:
Only donate to organizations you know and trust. Use websites like CharityNavigator.org to verify legitimacy.
Tips to Protect Yourself:
- Never give personal or financial information over the phone or by email unless you initiated the contact.
- Hang up on robocalls or unsolicited callers.
- Don’t click on suspicious links in emails or texts.
- Use strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Monitor your accounts and credit reports frequently.
- Talk to someone you trust before sending money or giving out information.
Final Thoughts
Scammers often use urgency, fear, or emotional manipulation to pressure victims. The more you know, the better you can protect yourself and your loved ones. If you believe you or someone you know has been targeted, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.