Imposter Scams: Help Protect the Seniors in Your Life

Imposter scams are one of the most common ways scammers target older adults - and the effects can be heartbreaking. These scams happen when someone pretends to be a trusted figure, like a government employee, tech support, or even a family member in trouble.

During Elder Abuse Awareness Month, we want to remind everyone: staying alert doesn't just protect you - it can also protect the older adults you care about.

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What to Look Out For

1. Fake Calls from Government Agencies: Scammers often pretend to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, or Medicare. They may claim there’s a problem with benefits, a fine that needs paying, or even that your loved one is in legal trouble. These agencies will never call out of the blue and ask for payment or personal information.
2. "Grandparent" Scams: A scammer may pretend to be a grandchild or other relative in an emergency. They might say they’ve been in an accident or arrested and need money right away. These calls can be emotional and urgent - but they’re designed to trick. Encourage the seniors in your life to pause and verify before sending money or giving personal details.
3. Tech Support Scams: Pop-up messages or unexpected phone calls claiming there’s a problem with a computer or phone can seem convincing. The scammer may ask for remote access or payment to “fix” the issue. Tech companies will not contact you to offer help you didn’t ask for.
4. Romance or Sweetheart Scams: Scammers often build fake relationships with older adults through phone calls, email, or online games. Once trust is built, they ask for money - usually for emergencies or travel. If someone they’ve never met in person asks for money, that’s a sign it could be a scam.

How to Help Protect Seniors from Imposter Scams

1. Start the Conversation: Talking about scams may feel uncomfortable, but it can make a big difference. Let the older adults in your life know they can come to you if they ever feel unsure.
2. Remind Them Not to Share Personal Information: Scammers often ask for Social Security numbers, banking details or passwords. Remind your loved ones to hang up or delete suspicious messages and to never share this kind of information unless they initiated the contact.
3. Warn Them About Secrecy and Urgency: Let them know that no legitimate business or agency will ever demand secrecy or pressure them to act immediately. If someone says, "Don't tell anyone," or insists they act right away, that's a red flag.
4. Help Set Up Scam Alerts and Call Blocking: Many phones and email providers offer tools to reduce spam and scam calls. Help older family members activate these features or enroll in the Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov.
5. Check in Regularly: Scammers often target people who seem isolated. Staying connected can help keep the lines of communication open and make your loved one less vulnerable.

The more we talk about these scams, the less power scammers have. Whether it's a quick reminder about common scam tactics or offering to be a trusted contact if something doesn’t feel right, your support can make a real difference. Awareness is one of our strongest tools in protecting loved ones from financial harm.

If you think you might have inadvertently shared your personal information with a scammer, please contact us as soon as possible at (805) 733-7600.