Seniors are top targets for scammers

Each year seniors lose millions of dollars to scammers and fraud making them top targets. Unfortunately, scammers come in many different forms that can be tricky to detect, from email, to mail to phone calls.

While anyone can be a victim of scams, the senior population is the most common. Nevertheless, there are ways to detect scammers and keep your information safe and private. Check out some of the top scams many fall victim to and how to prevent it.

Email/text messages

Phishing emails and text messages are a common scam. These messages usually look as though they are from a reliable source offering a link to click or requesting certain information such as your social security, credit card and personal information.

It might even sound as if they know you, making it seem reliable when in reality it is not. For example, using your first name or claiming they know you from a friend, company, neighbor, etc. It is important to never respond or click on any links that are not properly encrypted or relevant.

Phone calls

Phone calls are the most common type of scam, from robocalls to Medicare/insurance scams to the “Grandparent” scam.

It’s essential to be cautious when on the phone. If you do not know the number calling, then it is probably not something relevant to you. Keep in mind if you do miss an important phone call, a voicemail will be left in your inbox regarding the matter.

Similar to email/text messages, it is important to note not to give personal information over the phone.

For example, the “Grandparent” scam is when a scammer will call saying, “Hi Grandpa/Grandma, do you know who this is?”

If you reveal your grandson/granddaughter’s name they can use that against you claiming they need money for rent, bills, etc. This can be difficult for many older adults to notice.

Another example is government or lottery scams. This is where scammers will convince you that you won a lottery or sweepstake. They will make up fake names or pretend they are from a reliable agency. Scammers are known to especially ask for money via gift cards or money transfers, which is why it is important to be mindful and cautious when on the phone.

Internet

Internet scams are big targets to the senior population. Pop-up browsers for “preventing viruses” on your computer might ask you for money or to click on an unreliable link, downloading an actual virus onto your computer. This can give scammers the ability to detect any personal information saved on your device. It is crucial to be aware of what you are clicking on while browsing on the web.

PIXABAY