Common Scams to Watch Out For on Senior Fraud Awareness Day

On May 15, we observe National Senior Fraud Awareness Day—a crucial reminder to stay vigilant against scams targeting older adults. If you have an elderly loved one or are simply concerned about senior fraud, being informed is one of the best defenses against these ever-evolving threats.

Tech Support Scams

Fraudsters often pose as tech support from reputable companies, claiming there's a problem with your device. They may ask for remote access, ultimately gaining control of sensitive information on your computer. Always verify the legitimacy of such calls before taking any action.

Government Impersonation Scams

Scammers sometimes pretend to be government officials, using threats of legal action to coerce victims into providing personal data. Remember, official agencies rarely reach out via phone demanding immediate action or payment.

Grandparent Scams

In these scams, imposters call seniors pretending to be their grandchildren in distress, urging them to send money immediately. Confirm such claims directly with family members before responding to these urgent pleas.

Romance Scams

Fraudsters develop trust over time in online relationships and eventually request money from their victims. Always be cautious and verify the identity of individuals who ask for financial assistance but have never met you in person.

Medicare Scams

Scammers may pose as Medicare representatives, offering bogus services to collect sensitive personal information. Be wary of unsolicited calls and requests for Medicare details over the phone.

Sweepstakes Scams

These scams claim you've won a prize but require you to pay upfront fees. Remember, legitimate sweepstakes do not demand payments. Always consider this a red flag and avoid sharing any financial information.

Awareness is our most potent tool against senior fraud. Share this information with loved ones, and encourage open discussions about these scams. If you encounter fraudulent activity, report it to the appropriate authorities. Visit USA.gov to learn more about reporting scams and safeguarding against fraud.