Top 12 Scams Seniors Should Know – and How to Stay Safe

Scams can come through email, text, social media, phone calls, mail, or in person. Most scams share the same characteristics:

  1. Something grabs your attention – an urgent problem, a big discount, or a lottery win.
  2. The scammer seems trustworthy, friendly, or caring.
  3. There’s a deadline – “Act fast!” or “Do this now!”

Being aware of these tactics can help you stay in control and protect your personal information.

1. Grandparent / Family Emergency Scam

How it works:

    • The caller claims to be a grandchild or relative in trouble, needing money fast.
    • They may have some personal info from social media to appear genuine.

How to stay safe:

    • Hang up immediately.
    • Contact family or authorities directly.
    • Never send money or personal information to an unknown caller.

2. Sweepstakes / Lottery Scam

How it works:

    • You receive a notice saying you’ve won a prize or lottery.
    • To claim it, you’re asked to pay fees or provide banking info.

How to stay safe:

    • Legitimate contests do not ask for money upfront.
    • Never send personal or financial information to claim a prize.
    • Verify the contest independently.

3. Home Improvement Scam

How it works:

    • Scammers offer “free inspections” or repairs to gain access to your home.
    • They may pretend to work for local authorities.

How to stay safe:

    • Never let unsolicited workers in.
    • Ask for identification.
    • Use licensed contractors and pay only after work is completed.

4. Telemarketing / Phone Scam

How it works:

    • Scammers impersonate banks, utilities, government agencies, or tech companies.
    • They pressure you to provide personal info or make immediate payments.

How to stay safe:

    • Don’t trust caller ID; numbers can be spoofed.
    • Never give personal info over the phone.
    • Hang up and call the company directly using a verified number.

5. Internet / Online Scams

How it works:

    • Scammers use email, ads, or fake websites to steal info.
    • Gift card scams, malicious pop-ups, and phishing attempts are common.

How to stay safe:

    • Never click links or open attachments from unknown sources.
    • Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
    • Verify websites are secure (look for https and the lock icon).
    • Keep antivirus and security software updated.

6. Charity / Disaster Relief Scam

How it works:

    • Scammers claim to represent charities or disaster relief organizations.
    • They ask for donations immediately, often cash or gift cards.

How to stay safe:

    • Verify charities with trusted sources (Attorney General, GuideStar, Charity Navigator).
    • Ask questions before donating.
    • Never give cash or purchase gift cards to donate.

7. Tech Support Scam

How it works:

    • Callers or pop-ups claim your computer has a virus or issue and offer to fix it.
    • They may ask for payment or remote access.

How to stay safe:

    • Never give remote access to unknown parties.
    • Contact trusted tech support only.

8. Romance / Online Dating Scam

How it works:

    • Scammers develop an online relationship and request money for emergencies or travel.

How to stay safe:

    • Be skeptical of anyone asking for money online.
    • Never send funds to someone you haven’t met in person.

9. Investment / Ponzi Scheme Scam

How it works:

    • Promises of high returns with low risk, often via phone, email, or social media.

How to stay safe:

    • Verify investment opportunities through licensed financial advisors or regulators (e.g., SEC).

10. Healthcare / Medicare / Insurance Scam

How it works:

    • Callers pose as Medicare, insurance, or healthcare providers asking for personal info.

      How to stay safe:

    • Medicare will never call unsolicited; contact your provider directly.

11. Fake Check / Overpayment Scam

How it works:

    • You receive a check and are asked to send part of it to someone else.

How to stay safe:

    • Never send money from a check you didn’t request.
    • Banks can hold you responsible for fraudulent checks.

12. Utility / Government Impersonation Scam

How it works:

    • Scammers claim services will be cut off unless immediate payment is made.

How to stay safe:

    • Hang up and call the company directly using verified contact info.
    • Never pay over the phone to an unsolicited caller.

Quick Safety Tips for Seniors

  • Hang up on suspicious calls.
  • Verify offers, contests, or charities independently.
  • Never send money or personal info to unknown sources.
  • Keep computer and mobile security software updated.
  • Monitor bank and credit card statements regularly.

Disclaimer: These links are provided because they have information that may be useful. The Center for Internet Security (CIS) does not warrant the accuracy of any information contained in the links, and neither endorses nor intends to promote the advertising of the resources listed herein. The opinions and statements contained in such resources are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the opinions of CIS.

Six Common Elderly Scams to Watch Out For.pdf