Older adults are valued members of our community, bringing wisdom and experience to enrich our lives. However, they are also often targeted by scammers. When older adults don’t know whether it’s a scam or not, they may be caught off guard—especially if they’ve never experienced the specific scam in question.
Understanding these specific scams is key. By learning the difference between each type of scam and how they work, you can help protect yourself or your loved one. It’s a simple way to make a difference!
Phishing Scams
Phishing scams trick people into providing sensitive information. This is typically done through a deceptive email or pop-up window on a compromised website.
These are often modeled after legitimate websites, like banks or government agencies. Older adults may receive an email from an address similar to that of their banks. Then the email asks the reader to input:
- Account numbers
- Passwords
- Or banking information
To protect against phishing emails, never click on a link through an email that asks you to input sensitive information. Instead, always go to the organization’s actual website and enter through there. You can also call them to verify if certain emails are legitimate.
Online Shopping Scams
Online shopping scams involve fake websites or pop-up ads on social media that take your payment information—but don’t deliver the promised goods. These scams can be highly convincing, often mimicking reputable brands.
To avoid falling victim, research the retailer before making a purchase. If you see an excellent sale, visit the retailer’s website to see if the information matches. Use secure payment methods and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
The Grandparent Scam
The grandparent scam involves a scammer posing as a grandchild. They may claim to be in distress and urgently need money.
The “Grandparent Scam” uses emotional manipulation to prey on a person’s sense of love and responsibility. It’s natural to want to help your grandchildren, but take a moment. Don’t rush and immediately send money; instead, verify that this situation is real.
When asked, the caller may simply say “I’m your grandson/daughter!” rather than actually use a name. Don’t say the name of your grandchild until they do. It also helps to reach out to family members—or call your grandchild directly—to confirm a situation before sending money.
Gift Card Scams
Gift card scams can be complicated, but they’re also easy to recognize. They typically involve someone requesting payment through gift cards—often posing as a trusted authority like a tech support agent or even someone you know. Once you provide the card number, the scammer usually disappears immediately.
If someone requests payment through a gift card, take a step back from the situation. Legitimate companies and government agencies would never request payment through a gift card. Always question such requests.
IRS Scams
IRS scams occur when scammers impersonate the IRS. They often demand immediate payment alongside personal information, like your Social Security number. They may threaten imprisonment or other consequences if you do not provide this information. This scam may happen via a phone call, email, or social media message.
These scams are designed to incite fear and compliance. The IRS will never contact you by phone or email to ask for payment. They communicate through official mail and will never call to threaten you or ask for personal information.
If you receive such a call, you can contact the IRS through their website. You can also send them an email at phishing@irs.gov to report the scam. If you email them, make sure to put “IRS Phone Scam” in the subject line.
Checking Scams
Checking scams are complex at first. This scam involves sending somebody a check for a significant amount, expecting them to cash it. Then, the scammer will contact you and ask you to return the excess amount before a certain date.
However, this date is key. Once you send the money, the check will bounce. Then, your bank will hold you responsible for the funds sent back to the scammer, and you never receive money from their end.
If a check ever seems suspicious, contact your bank before taking any action. Never send money back to the writer of the check until the check has actually cleared.
Medicare Scams
Medicare scams involve a person posing as a Medicare representative. Their goal is simple—to steal as much of your personal information as they can. They may claim to need your details to update records or issue you a new card. This is often done through phone calls or suspicious emails, with the goal of using your information to commit identity theft.
You should only ever input any Medicare-related information through official sites. Do not ever provide your Medicare number, insurance information, or Social Security number over the phone or in response to emails (unless you’re confident you’re actually speaking to a real Medicare representative).
A Community You Can Trust
Scams are becoming more complex by the day. But with awareness and vigilance, you can protect yourself and your loved ones against common senior-targeted scams.
At The Grande at Laumeier Park, we’re here to help keep your loved one safe in a community you can trust. Our team is here to help, so contact our team for more information, or schedule a visit with us today to see for yourself.
