Common Scams Targeting Seniors
Common Scams Targeting Seniors
Seniors are frequently targeted. Use our Senior Safety Simulator to practice recognition.
Why Seniors Are Targeted
- Often have savings and good credit
- May be trusting and polite
- Less familiar with technology
- May be socially isolated
- Reluctant to report being scammed
Common Scam Types
Grandparent Scam
Fake emergency from grandchild. See Voice Scam Risk
Medicare/Health Insurance Scams
Fake insurance agents selling fake policies or stealing Medicare numbers.
Tech Support Scams
"Your computer has a virus" calls leading to remote access and theft.
Social Security Scams
Claims that Social Security number is suspended or compromised.
Romance Scams
Online relationships leading to money requests. See Identity Safety Guide
Investment Scams
"Low-risk, high-return" schemes targeting retirement savings.
Lottery/Prize Scams
"You've won" schemes requiring upfront payment.
Charity Scams
Fake charities exploiting generosity.
Home Repair Scams
Unnecessary repairs at inflated prices.
Warning Signs
- Pressure for immediate action
- Requests for unusual payment methods
- Secrecy demands
- Unsolicited contact
- Too-good-to-be-true offers
Protection
- Verify independently
- Take time to decide
- Consult trusted family/friends
- Never give personal information to unsolicited callers
- Be skeptical of urgency
Visit Scam Text Analyzer and Evidence Preservation.
Report AI Fraud to StopAiFraud.com →
Visit Safety Tools for more resources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are seniors targeted by scammers?
A: Seniors are often targeted because they may have savings and good credit, tend to be more trusting and polite, may be less familiar with technology and AI scams, might be socially isolated making verification difficult, and are sometimes reluctant to report being scammed due to embarrassment. Scammers exploit these factors with emotional manipulation tactics.
Q: What are the most common scams targeting seniors?
A: Common senior-targeted scams include grandparent scams (fake emergencies from grandchildren), Medicare/insurance fraud, tech support scams claiming computer viruses, Social Security impersonation, romance scams, investment schemes targeting retirement savings, lottery/prize scams, charity fraud, and home repair scams. Many now use AI voice cloning to make them more convincing.
Q: How can I protect elderly family members from scams?
A: Establish family code words for emergencies, set up verification protocols, discuss common scam tactics openly, be a backup verification contact, check in regularly, help with technology security, monitor for unusual financial activity, remove stigma from asking for help, educate without patronizing, and create an environment where they feel comfortable reporting suspicious contacts.
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