They say with age comes wisdom — but scammers are banking on the fact that with age also comes trust.
In this publication, we're uncovering a dangerous scam trend that's targeting older adults and putting their Social Security benefits at risk. If you have aging parents, grandparents, or are over 60 yourself, this one's especially for you.
Scammers are impersonating banks and government agencies to trick seniors into giving up their Social Security numbers and financial info. These well-crafted emails and calls are leading to identity theft — and in some cases, outright theft of benefits.
How It Works:
- Imposter Contact: The victim receives a phone call or email claiming to be from their bank or the Social Security Administration.
- Fake Alert: They're told their card was used fraudulently or that there's a problem with their Social Security account.
- Urgent Request: They’re asked to “verify” their Social Security number or other personal information.
- Theft Follows: Once the scammers have the info, they can drain accounts, open new ones, or reroute Social Security benefits.
Who’s Targeted:
- Primarily adults aged 70 and older
- Seniors receiving Social Security benefits
- Residents in states like Nevada, which reported higher scam-related losses in 2024
Many seniors are targeted not just for their benefits, but because scammers assume they’re more trusting or less tech-savvy.
Real-Life Example:
“They say, ‘Your bank card was used for this purchase, please confirm your Social Security number,’” explained Rep. Susie Lee. “Then that leads to identity theft, and people see that money has been taken from their account.”
Chelsea Crowton, an attorney from the Southern Nevada Senior Law Program, added:
“Especially with elder exploitation, there’s a shame factor that keeps people from reporting it.”
Even Phyllis Gurgevich, president of the Nevada Bankers Association, admitted she fell for a scam — proving no one is immune.
Why You Should Care:
In 2024 alone, Americans lost a jaw-dropping $12.5 billion to scams and fraud. For older adults, the median loss was $1,000 — money that’s hard to recover, especially for those on fixed incomes.
Beyond the financial cost, the emotional toll — fear, shame, and stress — is just as devastating. Seniors who are targeted once may be re-targeted again, especially if the scam goes unreported.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Never share personal info over phone or email — Legit agencies will never ask for your SSN, bank info, or passwords via unsolicited calls or emails.
- Shred sensitive documents — Don’t toss bank statements, insurance forms, or anything with your name and numbers in the trash.
- Review your bank and benefits statements monthly — Look for unexpected withdrawals or changes.
- Verify any suspicious contact — Hang up and call the agency directly using their official number or website.
- Talk about it — Don’t let shame keep you silent. Reporting helps stop scammers from targeting others.
Quick Tips & Updates:
Quick Tip #1: Did you know? The Social Security Administration will never call you to threaten arrest or demand payment — those calls are always scams.
Pro Tip: Bookmark the Nevada Attorney General’s new fraud reporting page to easily flag any issues with your Social Security benefits.
Stay safe, stay informed.
Keywords Defined:
- Social Security Scam: A fraud tactic in which criminals impersonate SSA officials to steal benefits or personal data.
- Elder Exploitation: When a senior is taken advantage of, financially or otherwise, often through deception.
- Impersonation Scam: A scheme in which a scammer pretends to be a legitimate institution or person to trick victims.
- Phishing: A form of fraud where scammers pose as trusted entities to steal personal data like login credentials or SSNs.
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