As scams become more sophisticated, older adults are increasingly being targeted by fraudsters looking to steal money, personal information, and peace of mind. The good news? Knowing what to watch for is the best defense.

Here are 10 of the most common scams affecting seniors today — and simple ways to avoid becoming a victim.

1. Medicare & Health Insurance Scams

Scammers may pose as Medicare representatives and ask for personal information, Social Security numbers, or payment details.

Warning Signs:

• Calls asking to “verify” Medicare information
• Offers for free medical equipment or services
• Requests for upfront fees

How to Stay Safe:

• Never give personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call
• Review Medicare statements regularly
• Report suspicious activity immediately

2. Grandparent Scams

A scammer pretends to be a grandchild or loved one in trouble and urgently needing money.

Warning Signs:

• Emotional or urgent requests
• Instructions to keep it secret
• Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency

How to Stay Safe:

• Pause and verify the story with another family member
• Ask personal questions only your loved one would know
• Never send money under pressure

3. Tech Support Scams

Fraudsters claim your computer has a virus and demand payment to “fix” it.

Warning Signs:

• Pop-up warnings claiming your device is infected
• Unsolicited calls from “Microsoft” or “Apple”
• Requests for remote access to your computer

How to Stay Safe:

• Legitimate companies do not call you unexpectedly about viruses
• Never allow strangers remote access to your device
• Close suspicious pop-ups immediately

4. Sweepstakes & Lottery Scams

Victims are told they’ve won a prize but must pay taxes or fees first.

Warning Signs:

• “Congratulations” messages for contests you never entered
• Requests for payment to claim winnings
• Pressure to act quickly

How to Stay Safe:

• Real lotteries never require upfront payment
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
• Never share banking information

5. Romance Scams

Scammers build online relationships to gain trust before asking for money.

Warning Signs:

• Someone professes love very quickly
• Excuses for never meeting in person
• Requests for financial help or gift cards

How to Stay Safe:

• Be cautious with online relationships
• Never send money to someone you haven’t met
• Talk to trusted friends or family if unsure

6. IRS & Government Impersonation Scams

Criminals pretend to be government officials demanding payment or threatening arrest.

Warning Signs:

• Threatening phone calls
• Demands for immediate payment
• Requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfer

How to Stay Safe:

• Government agencies typically contact by mail first
• Hang up and contact the agency directly
• Never provide sensitive information over the phone

7. Charity Scams

Scammers take advantage of generosity during disasters or holidays.

Warning Signs:

• High-pressure donation requests
• Vague information about the charity
• Requests for cash, gift cards, or wire transfers

How to Stay Safe:

• Donate only to verified charities
• Research organizations before giving
• Avoid clicking donation links in unsolicited emails

8. Investment & Financial Scams

Fraudsters promise guaranteed returns or “risk-free” investments.

Warning Signs:

• Pressure to act immediately
• Promises of unusually high returns
• Complex or confusing explanations

How to Stay Safe:

• Consult a trusted financial advisor
• Research investment opportunities thoroughly
• Avoid anyone guaranteeing profits

9. Package Delivery & Phishing Text Scams

Fake texts or emails claim there’s an issue with a delivery and ask you to click a link.

Warning Signs:

• Unexpected shipping notifications
• Misspellings or strange web addresses
• Requests for payment or login credentials

How to Stay Safe:

• Don’t click suspicious links
• Track packages directly through official websites
• Delete unfamiliar messages

10. Funeral & Bereavement Scams

Scammers target grieving families through fake debts or funeral-related fraud.

Warning Signs:

• Calls demanding payment for supposed debts
• Fake funeral expense requests
• Pressure during emotional moments

How to Stay Safe:

• Verify all claims independently
• Avoid making financial decisions under pressure
• Consult trusted family members before paying

Final Tips to Protect Yourself

Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and confusion. Slowing down and verifying information can prevent most fraud attempts.

Remember:

• Never share personal or financial information with unknown callers
• Be cautious of urgent requests
• Talk to a trusted family member or advisor before sending money
• Trust your instincts

Staying informed is one of the best ways to stay protected. Share this information with friends and loved ones to help keep your community safe.