Seniors, beware of scams!

Scams targeting senior citizens are unfortunately very common, as scammers often see older adults as more trusting, less tech-savvy, or more likely to have savings. Here are some of the most common scams that target seniors, along with how they usually work: 

How it works? 

A scammer calls or sends a pop-up message claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or another tech company. They say there’s a virus on the victim’s computer and offer to fix it—if they can get remote access or a payment. 

Red flags: 

• Unsolicited calls or pop-ups 
• Asking for remote access 
• Demanding payment in gift cards or wire transfers 

How it works? 

Fraudsters pose as Medicare representatives to get personal information. They may offer "free" medical equipment or services in exchange for your Medicare number, which they use for false claims.

Red flags: 

• Requests for Medicare or insurance info over the phone 
• Offers for free items you didn’t request 

How it works? 

Scammers create fake online dating profiles and build emotional relationships with victims. Eventually, they ask for money, claiming a fake emergency or travel problem.

Red flags: 

• They fall in love too quickly 
• They never meet in person 
• Always seem to have an excuse to ask for money 

How it works? 

A scammer pretends to be a grandchild in trouble (like arrested or in a hospital) and needs money urgently. They may also claim to be a lawyer or police officer.

Red flags: 

• Emergency calls demanding secrecy 
• Asking for wire transfers or gift cards 
• Caller doesn’t sound like the grandchild but insists it’s them 

How it works? 

The victim is told they’ve won a prize but must pay taxes or fees first to claim it. There is no prize, and the money disappears.

Red flags: 

• You must pay to collect winnings 
• You don’t remember entering any contest 

How it works? 

Scammers promise high returns with little or no risk. Seniors are targeted for Ponzi schemes, fake real estate deals, or “once-in-a-lifetime” investment opportunities.

Red flags: 

• High-pressure tactics 
• “Guaranteed” returns 
• Complex or unclear business models 

How it works? 

Scammers pose as charities—often after a disaster—and ask for donations. They often use emotional appeals and fake names similar to real charities.

Red flags: 

• High-pressure appeals for immediate donation 
• Requests for cash, wire, or gift card donations 
• No official website or contact info 

How it works? 

Someone shows up offering cheap repairs. They might do shoddy work, raise the price midway, or take payment and never return.

Red flags: 

• Unsolicited offers 
• No written contract 
• Demands for cash upfront 

How it work? 

Someone claims to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, or another agency, threatening arrest or loss of benefits unless payment or personal info is provided. 

Red flags: 

• Threats of arrest 
• Demands for payment via gift card or wire 
• Caller ID shows a government number (it can be spoofed) 

How it works?

Victims get fake shipping notices, or are lured by fake online deals. Once they pay, the product never arrives—or their info is stolen.

Red flags: 

• Deals that seem too good to be true 
• Requests for unusual forms of payment 
• Links that look suspicious or unsecure