Fraud Prevention:

How to Spot Scams Targeting Older Adults

Financial fraud targeting older adults is on the rise — and it’s getting more sophisticated every year. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, Americans over 60 lost more than $3.4 billion to scams in 2023, a staggering 11% increase from the previous year.

Criminals often target older adults because they are perceived as more trusting, financially stable, or less familiar with new technology. But awareness is the first line of defense — and you can protect yourself and your loved ones by knowing the warning signs and taking simple precautions.

Common Scams Targeting Older Adults

1. The “Grandparent” Scam
You receive a call from someone claiming to be a grandchild in trouble — they’ve been in an accident, arrested, or stranded abroad and need money immediately. Scammers use urgency and emotional manipulation to prevent you from verifying the story.

🛑 If this happens: hang up and call your grandchild or another family member directly before taking any action.

2. Tech Support or Computer Virus Scams
A pop-up on your computer says you’ve been hacked — or someone claiming to be from Microsoft or Apple offers to fix your computer for a fee. Once they gain remote access, they can steal personal or financial data.

🛑 Never give remote access to your devices or provide credit card information over the phone.

3. Government or Utility Impersonation Scams
Scammers pretend to be from the IRS, Social Security, or local utilities, demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest or service shutoff.

🛑 Government agencies never call to demand payment or ask for personal information by phone or email.

4. Romance or Friendship Scams
Fraudsters create fake online profiles, form emotional relationships, and eventually ask for money.

🛑 Be cautious of anyone you meet online who quickly professes affection or avoids meeting in person.

5. Charity or Sweepstakes Scams
You’re told you’ve “won” a prize — but you must first pay fees or taxes to claim it — or pressured to donate to a cause that sounds urgent.

🛑 Real sweepstakes don’t require payment, and legitimate charities never pressure you to donate immediately.

Protect Yourself: Simple Safety Steps

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and AARP Fraud Watch Network recommend these key strategies:

  • Never give out personal or financial information over the phone, by email, or to unknown online sources.

  • Resist pressure. Scammers thrive on urgency — take time to think and verify.

  • Monitor your bank and credit card statements regularly for unfamiliar charges.

  • Register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov.

  • Report suspected fraud immediately to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or to the Georgia Consumer Protection Division at consumer.ga.gov.

How SCI Helps Promote Awareness

At Senior Citizens Inc., we’re dedicated to helping older adults age safely and confidently. Through our Neighborhood Centers, Care Navigators, and community outreach, we promote education and connection — two powerful defenses against scams and isolation.

Our staff is also trained to recognize when something seems “off” and can help connect clients or caregivers with trusted local and national resources for additional support.

By staying informed, engaged, and connected, older adults are less likely to fall victim to scams — and more likely to share their knowledge to protect others in the community.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Fraud can happen to anyone. Staying alert, asking questions, and leaning on community resources can help keep your finances — and your peace of mind — secure.

To learn about upcoming wellness and safety programs through Senior Citizens Inc., call us at 912-236-0363 or fill out the form below.