You know you’re getting older when you check the mailbox and feel more fear than excitement. Not because of bills, but because scams are coming in faster than birthday cards.
Scammers are getting bolder and seniors are one of their favorite targets. From fake sweepstakes wins to phony “grandkids in trouble,” the tactics are endless. At a recent workshop in Columbiana, Ohio, identity protection instructor Dave Long shared why seniors are particularly at risk—and what steps can keep them safe.
Here’s the reality: scammers lean on surprise, urgency, and emotion. They reach out “out of the blue,” often pretending to be a government agency, bank, or even a family member. Then they demand fast action—usually in the form of gift cards, wire transfers, or personal details. Once you’ve paid or shared info, they vanish.
The primary targets?
Seniors, especially those who are single, less tech-savvy, and naturally more trusting. According to Long, people over 60 hold 70% of America’s wealth, which makes them a prime payday for fraudsters.
One real-world example? The so-called “grandparent scam,” where someone calls pretending to be a grandchild in jail, begging for bail money via Amazon gift cards. Or the international lottery trick: “Congratulations, you’ve won big!” But as Long reminded the audience, if you didn’t buy a ticket, you didn’t win.
Why does this matter?
Because seniors aren’t just losing money. Falling victim to scams can damage their independence, self-confidence, and even their health due to stress. Families, too, often get pulled into cleanup—recovering stolen funds is nearly impossible.
Here’s how to protect yourself or your loved ones:
- Hang up on unsolicited calls or texts. Don’t engage.
- Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency—legit organizations won’t ask for that.
- Confirm directly with banks, delivery companies, or government offices using official phone numbers.
- Protect your identity by freezing your credit at Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian (links below).
- Watch the mailbox—thieves often target red-flagged outgoing mail.
Quick Tip: Did you know scammers can spoof phone numbers to look like they’re calling from your local police or bank? Always call back using the official number.
Pro Tip: If someone pressures you to act fast, that’s your sign to slow down. Scams thrive on urgency.
Stay safe, stay informed, and remember: knowledge is your best defense.
Keywords & Definitions
- Credit freeze: A tool that prevents creditors from accessing your credit report, blocking scammers from opening accounts in your name.
- Grandparent scam: A con where fraudsters pose as grandchildren in urgent need of money.
- Sweepstakes scam: A fraudulent scheme claiming you’ve won a prize or lottery you never entered, often demanding payment upfront.
- Phishing: The act of tricking someone into sharing personal details through fake emails, calls, or websites.
- Urgency tactic: A pressure strategy scammers use to force quick decisions without giving victims time to think.
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