Senior Scams

Knowledge to empower you against fraud and scams.

Scammers are getting wiser, but so are you. Though we can’t stop the aging process, gray hair and wrinkles (we tried), we can bring awareness to our community on common fraud and scams targeting our senior citizens. One of the best ways we can help stop fraud and scams is to teach how to recognize them. The more we openly share with each other, the more we can help detect and be aware of current techniques being used to defraud consumers.

Telltale Signs of a Scam

Claims of urgency or an emergency

Unexpected winnings or free offers

Claims of problems with your account

Unusual requests for personal information

Requests for money and offers to send you money

Mismatched information

Requests to keep relationships confidential

Threats of any type or severity

Incorrect spelling in emails and letters

Unsolicited calls or emails from seemingly legitimate organizations

Requests to update or confirm account or payment information

Offers that are too good to be true

Not sure if you are dealing with a fraud or scam? Ask a trusted friend or family member, your local law enforcement agency or your bank or credit union. Your community is here to help protect your hard-earned money against fraud and scams.

Common scams targeting seniors

IRS

You are demanded to send immediate payment to the IRS for back taxes or penalties via wire transfer, money order or prepaid cards.

Telemarketer

You are contacted by someone posing as a legitimate business requesting information about you, your accounts and requesting payment.

Social Security

You are contacted by a scammer claiming they are from the Social Security Administration. They ask for personal information like your bank account and Social Security number.

Phishing

A scammer poses as a legitimate organization contacting you via email or text message, providing you a link to a fake website to steal your information.

Relative

A scammer poses as a loved one in an emergency. They request money and want everything kept a secret.

Romance

These fraudsters pull on your heartstrings. They will use dating apps, email and social media to build a relationship with you. However, their intentions are not pure.

Sweepstakes

You are notified that you’ve won a large sum of money, but the scammer needs payment for fees and taxes before you can collect your winnings.

Investment

You are approached with a risk-free investment, guaranteed to earn you money. You are asked for a fee or down payment prior to investing.

Home Repair

You are pressured into purchasing limited time offers, asked to pay in cash, or the scammer offers to apply for financing on your behalf.

Prescription Drug

Illegitimate pharmacies direct you to a website requesting payment.

Health Insurance

Fake insurance companies collect premiums without paying the claims.

What if I’ve been impacted by one of these?

Report it to your local law enforcement agency. The more awareness we can spread, the more impact we can have in fighting fraud!