Elderly Scams: Staying Informed and Protected

As our loved ones age, awareness of scams targeting older people becomes crucial. These scams lead to financial losses and emotional distress, making education essential for preventing victimization.

Common Elderly Scams:

1. Telemarketing Scams: Scammers call offering prizes or services that do not exist and require upfront payments.
   1. Tip: Always verify the caller's identity before sharing personal information.
2. Email Phishing: Emails are designed to mimic a legitimate organization to steal your personal information.
   1. Tip: Scrutinize email addresses and avoid clicking links from unknown sources.
3. Investment Scams: Fake investment opportunities promise high returns, preying on financial security desires.
   1. Tip: Consult a trusted financial advisor before investing.
4. Romance Scams: Scammers build emotional connections through online dating to request money.
   1. Tip: Be overly cautious about sharing personal information or sending money to new acquaintances.

Empowering Seniors

• Educate: Regular conversations about common scams can help seniors recognize potential threats.
• Report: Encourage reporting suspicious calls or emails to the Federal Trade Commission to help protect others.
• Support Network: Foster a network of friends and family for advice and regular check-ins to reduce isolation.

By remaining informed and proactive, we can help our seniors navigate the risks of scams and ensure they enjoy their golden years safely.