Scam Prevention Guide for Seniors
Learn how to recognize, avoid, and report common scams targeting older adults. Stay safe online and over the phone.
1. Common Scams to Watch For
- Phishing Emails: Fake messages asking for personal info or account verification.
- Impersonation Calls: Scammers posing as IRS, Social Security, or utility companies demanding payment.
- Tech Support Scams: Pop-ups or calls claiming your computer is infected.
- Grandparent Scams: Urgent pleas for money from someone claiming to be a family member in trouble.
- Lottery & Prize Scams: Notifications of winnings that require fees or personal data.
2. How to Spot a Scam
- Unsolicited contact asking for money or personal details.
- Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
- High-pressure tactics: “Act now or your account will be closed!”
- Poor spelling/grammar or email addresses that don’t match the official source.
3. Protecting Yourself
- Never share passwords, Social Security numbers, or bank details by email or phone.
- Verify the caller: Hang up and call back via an official number listed on the organization’s website.
- Use spam filters and enable email authentication (SPF, DKIM) where possible.
- Install reputable antivirus and keep your software updated.
4. Reporting Scams
- FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
- AARP Fraud Watch Network: aarp.org/scams
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): ic3.gov
- Local law enforcement and your state’s Attorney General’s office.