Keep Ahead of the SCAMMERS!

Scams targeting the elderly are unfortunately common, as scammers often exploit vulnerabilities such as lack of tech-savviness, isolation, or a trusting nature.

Phishing scams involve fraudsters impersonating legitimate companies or organizations (like banks, government agencies, or tech companies) to steal sensitive information such as passwords, bank details, or personal data.

• How it works: Scammers often send fake emails, texts, or phone calls asking the recipient to "verify" personal details or click a malicious link.
• How to avoid:
  • Never click on links in unsolicited emails or texts.
  • Look for grammatical errors, strange web addresses, or suspicious sender names.
  • Contact the organization directly using official contact details to verify any request.

Imposter scams occur when fraudsters pose as trusted figures, such as family members, government officials, or company representatives, to manipulate victims into handing over money or personal information.

• How it works: Common imposter scams include "grandparent scams," where a scammer pretends to be a relative in distress, asking for money immediately.
• How to avoid:
  • Always verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a relative or official before sending money.
  • Hang up on unsolicited calls from "officials" asking for money or information and call the legitimate organization to confirm.

Tech support scams trick victims into believing their computer or smartphone has a virus or technical issue, and the scammer offers to "fix" it for a fee or by gaining remote access to the device.

• How it works: Scammers often cold-call or send pop-up alerts claiming to be from reputable tech companies like Microsoft or Apple, asking for remote access to "fix" a problem.
• How to avoid:
  • Never give control of your computer or device to an unsolicited caller.
  • If a pop-up appears claiming your device has a virus, close the window and do not click any links.
  • Legitimate tech companies do not make unsolicited tech support calls.

These scams convince victims that they’ve won a large prize, but must pay a fee or provide personal information to claim their winnings.

• How it works: Scammers send letters, emails, or make phone calls claiming the victim has won a lottery or sweepstakes they never entered, requiring an upfront payment or personal details to receive the prize.
• How to avoid:
  • Never pay to claim a prize.
  • Legitimate lotteries do not ask for upfront fees.
  • Be skeptical of unsolicited prize notifications, especially if you didn’t enter any contests.

Investment scams prey on retirees by offering fake or risky financial opportunities, often promising large returns or low-risk deals.

• How it works: Scammers present "can't-miss" investment opportunities or offer to help "release" pensions early, often asking for upfront payments.
• How to avoid:
  • Be skeptical of anyone offering financial opportunities that sound too good to be true.
  • Always consult with a trusted financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited calls or emails offering pension reviews or investment opportunities.

Romance scams occur when fraudsters pretend to form a romantic relationship with the victim to manipulate them into sending money or revealing personal information.

• How it works: Scammers, often using fake profiles on dating websites or social media, build a relationship over time and eventually ask for money for an "emergency" or to meet in person.
• How to avoid:
  • Be cautious of people who quickly profess love or affection online.
  • Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
  • Perform reverse image searches to check if the person's profile picture has been used elsewhere online.

Fraudsters pose as representatives of charities, particularly during times of crisis or after natural disasters, to solicit donations for fake causes.

• How it works: Scammers often contact victims via phone, email, or in person, claiming to collect donations for a charitable cause that does not exist.
• How to avoid:
  • Verify the charity's legitimacy by checking official charity websites or using charity watchdogs like Charity Navigator.
  • Avoid giving cash donations in response to unsolicited calls or door-to-door requests.
  • Donate directly through trusted, official charity channels.

Home repair scams target elderly homeowners by offering unnecessary or overpriced services. Scammers often pressure victims into quick decisions or perform shoddy work, then disappear.

• How it works: Scammers offer to fix roofs, driveways, or other home repairs, demanding full payment upfront or drastically overcharging for minimal work.
• How to avoid:
  • Be wary of unsolicited repair offers, especially from individuals who knock on your door.
  • Get quotes from multiple licensed contractors before agreeing to any work.
  • Never pay the full amount upfront for home repairs.

Fraudsters target seniors by pretending to represent healthcare providers, Medicare, or insurance companies, asking for personal or financial information.

• How it works: Scammers call or visit pretending to be from Medicare or an insurance company, asking for personal details to update records or process claims.
• How to avoid:
  • Medicare or legitimate insurance companies will never call or visit to ask for personal information.
  • Guard your Medicare number and other personal details closely.
  • Report any suspicious Medicare-related calls to Medicare directly.

These scams exploit grieving families by overcharging for services or offering fraudulent pre-payment plans for funerals.

• How it works: Scammers may target recent widows or elderly individuals, offering unnecessary services or inflated prices for funeral or burial arrangements.
• How to avoid:
  • Always compare prices and services from different funeral homes.
  • Read contracts thoroughly and consult with a trusted family member or legal advisor before making any pre-payment arrangements.

1. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is the best defense. Learn about common scams targeting the elderly.
2. Don’t Share Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing financial or personal information over the phone or online, especially if unsolicited.
3. Verify Calls or Emails: If in doubt, hang up and call the company or person back using an official number to verify the legitimacy of the request.
4. Avoid Pressure Tactics: Scammers often use pressure to make you act quickly. Always take your time to think things over.
5. Get Help from Trusted Individuals: If you’re unsure about a request, ask a trusted family member, friend, or legal advisor for advice.
6. Use Call Blocking: Block suspicious numbers and use call-blocking technology to reduce unwanted calls.
7. Sign Up for the TPS: In the UK, sign up for the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce unsolicited marketing calls.

By staying aware of these scams and taking steps to protect personal information, the elderly can avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.