Scams targeting older adults are becoming more frequentand more sophisticated.With cyberattacks dominating headlines, cybercriminals are increasingly viewing seniors as ideal targets.According to findings published recently by Security Journal, cybercriminals intentionally targetolder adultsas potential victims, driven by the belief that they are wealthy and easy to deceive.Every year, thousands of seniors across the US fall victim to financial fraud.Data released in the Federal Trade Commission's 2024 Consumer Sentinel Network Data Booknotes that older adults reported losing $2.3 billion to fraud in 2024.
The report also found that people in their 60s, 70s and 80s accounted for74% of all fraud loss reports made to the agency last year.In addition, a report released by the FBI in July found online scams and other internet crimes are skyrocketing, with a record $16.6 billion in losses in 2024.The good news is that awareness is the firstand most powerfulstep toward prevention.Understanding the most common scams, knowing what to watch for, and taking simple precautions can protect you and your loved ones.And for many older adults, moving into a senior living community can add an extra layer of security and peace of mind.Six Common Scams That Target SeniorsHere are some of the most frequent scams that impact older adults:Medicare or Health Insurance ScamsScammers may pose as Medicare representatives to get personal information or offer fake services for a fee.
They may ask for your Medicare number or bank information to verify your identity which they then use to commit fraud.IRS- or Government-Impersonation ScamsYou may receive a threatening call claiming you owe taxes and must pay immediately or face arrest.The IRS never contacts people by phone with threats like this.These are always scams.Tech Support ScamsA pop-up may appear on your computer claiming you have a virus.
The scammer asks for remote access and then charges you to fix the issue or installs malware to steal your personal information.Grandparent ScamsSomeone calls pretending to be your grandchild in trouble.They ask for emergency money and beg you not to tell their parents.This emotional manipulation can be very effective.Romance ScamsOnline scammers pose as potential romantic partners on dating sites or social media, slowly building trust before asking for money or financial helpLottery or Sweepstakes ScamsYoure told youve won a prizebut must pay taxes or processing fees up front to claim it.
If you didnt enter a contest, you didnt win anything.Tips to Protect Yourself or a Senior Loved One From ScamsHere are a few ways you or an older adult in your life can avoid falling victim to a financial scam:Never give out personal information (Social Security number, bank account, Medicare number) to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.Dont rush into anything.Scammers often pressure you to act quickly or require an immediate decision to qualify for a special deal.Take your time to check references, read online reviews, and verify facts.Hang up on suspicious calls.
If someone claims to be from the IRS, police, or utility company and demands immediate payment, its likely a scam.Hang up the phone immediately.Dont click unknown links.In emails or texts, avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from senders you dont know.Check with someone you trust.
If something feels off, talk to a family member, friend, or staff member before responding.One final tip is to report scams or potential scams, even if you are embarrassed.Call your local law enforcement, who will either help you or direct you to someone who can.How Senior Living Communities Help Prevent ScamsLiving in a senior community offers many benefits, including enhanced protection against scams and fraud.Heres how:Trained Team Members On-SiteStaff in senior living communities are often trained to recognize suspicious calls, letters, and behaviors.
They may be able to ask questions and intervene before a scam results in a financial loss.Regular Education and WorkshopsMany communities host educational sessions on scam prevention, internet safety, and personal security.For example, Quincy Village, Waynesboro, PA and St.Andrew's Village, Indiana, PAboth hosted Cyber Security Education programs by Greg Day, PSL's Vice President of Technology.
Staying informed helps residents remain alert and cautious.Reduced Isolation for Older AdultsScammers prey on individuals who may be isolated and lonely.In a senior living community, regular social interaction and peer support reduce vulnerability and make residents less likely to fall for a fake friend or romance scam.Controlled AccessLiving in a community with secured entry limits access for door-to-door scammers or imposters.Visitors are often required to sign in, so strangers cant easily approach residents without a team member knowing.An Invitation to Visit a PSL Location Near YouWith communities in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Ohio, PSL offers a variety of choices designed to meet every need and budget.
We invite you to call a PSL location near you to schedule a time for a personal tour at your convenience!
Publisher: PSL Blog ( Read More )
