Protect yourself from scams
Scammers often target older adults with urgency and fear. Slow down. Real companies and government agencies will not demand gift cards, crypto, or secrecy.
Common scams
Government / IRS / Social Security
Threats of arrest, lawsuits, or suspended benefits unless you pay immediately. Real agencies do not call demanding payment by gift card or crypto.
Tech support
Pop-ups or calls saying your computer is infected. They want remote control and payment. Close the browser; call a trusted family member or a known local shop.
“Grandparent” emergency
Someone claims a grandchild is in jail or in an accident and needs bail money now — and “don’t tell Mom.” Call the family member yourself on a known number.
Romance / friendship online
New “friends” who quickly ask for money, gift cards, or investment help. Never send money to someone you have not met in person through trusted channels.
Medicare / health insurance
Offers of free equipment or “required” new cards that need your Medicare number. Guard your Medicare number like a credit card. Report fraud to 1-800-HHS-TIPS.
Fake shipping or bank texts
Links that look almost right. Don’t click. Open the bank or carrier app yourself or type the address you already trust.
What to do if you were scammed
Stop contact. Tell a trusted family member. Report to the FTC, your bank, and if needed IC3.gov. Feeling embarrassed is normal — scammers are professionals. Reporting helps others.