Avoiding Elder Fraud: 5 Scams Targeting Seniors -And How to Fight Back
- Grace Harper
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 2
Be sure to download the Senior Scam Cheat Sheet below.
You’re smarter than they think. Let’s prove it.
If there’s one thing that makes my blood boil, it’s scammers who target seniors. These criminals bank on trust, urgency, and sometimes loneliness to steal hard-earned savings—and it’s personal. My 78-year-old neighbor, Martha, almost lost $5,000 to a fake "grandson in jail" call. She’s sharp, independent, and still got fooled.
That’s why we’re exposing the 5 most common senior scams—and arming you with real-world defenses to fight back. No jargon, no fear-mongering—just straight talk to keep your money (and dignity) safe. Let's fight elder fraud.
Scam Number 1: “Grandparent Emergency” Scam
How It Works:
A call at 3 AM: "Grandma, I’m in jail! Send bail money NOW—and don’t tell Mom!" The voice sounds just like your grandson… but it’s a scammer using AI voice-cloning.
Red Flags:
Urgent demands for wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
Pressure to keep it secret.
Caller ID spoofing (looks like a real number).
Fight Back:
Hang up and call the family member directly (use a known number, not the one they gave).
Ask a personal question only the real person would know ("What was your first pet’s name?").
Spread the word—tell your family about this scam so they’re prepared.
"I almost fell for it because I panicked. Now I know: no emergency is so urgent it can’t wait for a callback." — Billie, 78*
Scam #2: “Medicare” or “Social Security” Calls
How It Works:
A “government agent” calls claiming your benefits will be cut off unless you “verify” your Social Security number or pay a “fine.”
Red Flags:
Threats of arrest or benefit cancellation.
Requests for personal info (SSN, Medicare number).
Demands for payment via prepaid cards or wire transfers.
Fight Back:
Know this: Medicare/Social Security never calls unannounced.
Call the official number yourself (1-800-MEDICARE or SSA’s 1-800-772-1213).
Freeze your credit (via Experian, TransUnion, Equifax) to block identity theft.
Scam #3: Tech Support “Virus” Scams
How It Works:
A pop-up warns "YOUR COMPUTER IS INFECTED!" with a toll-free number to call. The “technician” then demands remote access—and your credit card.
Red Flags:
Unsolicited calls claiming your device is hacked.
Requests to download remote access software (AnyDesk, TeamViewer).
Pressure to pay for fake “subscriptions” or “repairs.”
Fight Back:
Never let strangers access your devices.
Update your software regularly (real virus alerts don’t look like ransom notes).
Use trusted tech help (like Geek Squad or your grandkid).
"I told the scammer, ‘If my computer’s so infected, why does it still run Solitaire?’ Then I hung up." — Art, 82*
Scam #4: Fake Sweepstakes & “You’ve Won!” Scams
How It Works:
A letter, email, or call insists you’ve won a lottery or prize—but must pay “taxes” or “fees” to claim it.
Red Flags:
You didn’t enter any contest.
Requests for upfront payment via gift cards or wire transfers.
Too-good-to-be-true prizes ("You’ve won a Mercedes and $1M!").
Fight Back:
Real prizes don’t require payment. Period.
Report it to the FTC.
Shred unsolicited “winning” letters.
Scam #5: Home Repair or Contractor Fraud
How It Works:
A “contractor” shows up after a storm, offering urgent roof repairs—takes a deposit, then vanishes.
Red Flags:
Door-to-door offers with high-pressure sales.
Cash-only demands or “limited-time discounts.”
No written contract or license number.
Fight Back:
Verify licenses (check your state’s contractor board).
Get 3 written estimates before hiring.
Pay with a credit card (never cash—disputes are easier).
Your Anti-Scam Against Elder Fraud Toolkit
Screen Calls: Use call-blocking apps like Nomorobo or Call Control.
Check in Weekly: Have a trusted contact (family, friend) to discuss suspicious offers.
Shred Everything: Destroy old bills, medical forms, and credit offers.
Stay Updated: Bookmark the FTC’s Scam Alerts
Final Thought: Scammers Fear Informed Seniors
You’ve survived recessions, wars, and disco. You’re not an easy target—you’re a hardened skeptic with a B.S. detector. The best defense? Slow down, verify, and trust your gut.
"I don’t answer unknown numbers anymore. If it’s important, they’ll leave a message—or send a carrier pigeon." — Evelyn, 75
Now go forth and scam-proof your life. Share this with a friend—it might save their savings.
Have you or a loved one been targeted? Share your story in the comments—let’s outsmart these crooks together.
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