Recognizing Common Scams That Target Older Adults
Scammers often target older adults with convincing stories. Learn the most common scams, the warning signs to watch for and what to do if you suspect fraud.
The short version
- Scammers create urgency, ask for secrecy and request unusual payment methods.
- Hang up and call back using a number you know is legitimate.
- Report scams to the FTC and get help from the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.
In this guide
Scams are becoming more sophisticated, using phone calls, emails, texts, social media and even artificial intelligence to sound convincing. Anyone can be targeted, and being scammed is never a sign of foolishness. Knowing the common tactics is one of the best ways to protect yourself.
Warning signs of a scam
Most scams share some of these features:
- Urgency: "You must act now," or "your account will be closed today."
- Fear or excitement: threats of arrest, or news that you have won a prize.
- Secrecy: "Do not tell your family" or "do not talk to your bank."
- Unusual payment methods: gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, payment apps or cash sent by courier.
- Requests for personal information: Social Security, Medicare or bank account numbers, or passwords.
- Unsolicited contact: a call, text or email you were not expecting.
Common scams to know
Government impostor scams. Callers claim to be from Social Security, Medicare, the IRS or law enforcement and say there is a problem with your account, or that you owe money. Government agencies do not call to demand immediate payment or threaten arrest.
Grandparent and family emergency scams. A caller pretends to be a grandchild or another relative in trouble, often in jail or a hospital, and asks for money urgently. Some scammers now use voice-cloning technology to sound like a family member.
Tech support scams. A pop-up or call says your computer has a virus and asks for remote access or payment to fix it.
Romance scams. Someone you meet online builds a relationship, then asks for money for an emergency, travel or an investment.
Prize and lottery scams. You are told you have won but must pay fees or taxes to collect.
Investment scams. Promises of high returns with little risk, often involving cryptocurrency.
Bank impersonation scams. A text or call claims to be from your bank's fraud department and asks you to move money to a "safe" account.
Home repair scams. Someone shows up uninvited offering repairs, asks for payment upfront and never finishes the work.
How to protect yourself
- Pause. Scammers rely on pressure. Take time to think.
- Hang up and verify. Call the organization directly using a number from your statement, card or official website.
- Never give personal information to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Never pay with gift cards or wire transfers to someone you do not know.
- Do not click links in unexpected emails or texts.
- Set up a family code word that relatives can use to verify an emergency call.
- Talk to someone you trust before sending money.
- Use call-blocking tools on your phone.
- Register with the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov. It will not stop scammers, but it reduces legitimate telemarketing calls, so unwanted calls are more suspicious.
If you think you have been scammed
- Stop all contact with the scammer.
- Contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
- Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) for help reporting and next steps.
- Report to local police, especially if money was lost.
- If your identity was stolen, visit IdentityTheft.gov.
Help others stay safe
Talk openly with friends and family about scams. Sharing experiences reduces embarrassment and helps others recognize the warning signs.
