Fraud & Scams
Older adults are frequently targeted by scammers. Knowing how to recognize and respond to fraud is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your finances.
If something doesn't feel right — stop and ask for help. We're here.
Warning Signs of a Scam
- You're asked to pay with gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
- Someone creates a sense of urgency — act now or lose out
- You're told to keep it secret from family or friends
- Something just doesn't feel right — trust your instincts
- An unexpected caller or email asks for personal or financial information
- You're threatened with arrest, lawsuits, or account suspension
- An offer seems too good to be true
Common Scams Targeting Older Adults
Medicare & Insurance Scams
Scammers pose as Medicare representatives to steal your personal information or bill Medicare for services you never received. They may offer free equipment or services in exchange for your Medicare number.
Phone & Robocall Scams
You may receive calls claiming you owe money to the IRS, Social Security Administration, or a utility company. Real government agencies will never demand immediate payment by phone or threaten arrest.
Grandparent Scams
A caller pretends to be a grandchild in trouble — arrested, in an accident, or stranded — and urgently asks for money. They may ask you to keep it secret from other family members.
Romance Scams
Scammers build online relationships and then ask for money, often claiming to be overseas or in an emergency situation. They may request gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Tech Support Scams
Pop-ups or phone calls claim your computer has a virus and ask you to allow remote access or pay for unnecessary repairs. Legitimate companies will never contact you this way unsolicited.
Lottery & Sweepstakes Scams
You're told you've won a prize, but must pay taxes or fees upfront to collect it. If you have to pay to receive a prize, it's a scam.
Home Repair & Contractor Scams
Strangers come to your door offering to fix your roof, driveway, or other repairs — often after a storm. They demand payment upfront and either do poor work or disappear entirely.
How to Protect Yourself
- Stop and pause — don't let anyone pressure you into acting immediately
- Hang up — it's okay to end a call that makes you uncomfortable
- Ask someone you trust — a family member, friend, or us
- Never share personal info — Social Security number, bank accounts, Medicare number
- Verify independently — look up a company's real phone number and call back yourself
- Report it — even if you weren't victimized, reporting helps protect others
If You Think You've Been Targeted
If you believe you've encountered a scam — or have already sent money — don't be embarrassed. These criminals are sophisticated and target people of all backgrounds. The most important thing is to take action quickly.