3 Common Scams Targeting Seniors

Scams are everywhere these days, especially those that target older adults. As it turns out, seniors can be a popular target by fraudsters. According to reporting by Consumer Reports, 3.5 million older adults are victims of financial exploitation each year, with an average loss of $34,200. While scams can target anyone, those older than 60 are often more vulnerable. With scams prevalent on the phone and online, sometimes it can be easy to get scammed if you don’t know the hallmarks of the common scams.

With that in mind, because we work with so many older adults at Special Touch Home Care, we wanted to provide a quick overview of different scams to be vigilant of. Learn about them all below!

Government Impersonation Scams
Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams
Robocalls and Phone Scam

1. Government Impersonation Scams

These scams are when someone calls, emails, or texts claiming to be a government official, often aiming to get your personal information. Typical agencies someone might say they’re calling from are the IRS, Social Security, or Medicare. What’s important to remember for these messages is that government agencies will never call, email, or text you and ask for money or personal information. These agencies typically send letters on official letterhead. Only a scammer would call. In addition, you can find more information about this type of scam in this guide from the FTC.

2. Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams

Another common type of scam is someone claiming you’ve won the lottery. This often involves asking you to pay money or give your account information to access your prize. Real sweepstakes organizations would never ask you for this information if you won an award. You can find more information about these types of scams in this guide with AARP.

3. Robocalls and Phone Scam

Chances are, you’ve received many robocalls and even scam phone calls. This can be anything from automated messages about false lawsuits to other scams designed to get you to give them your account or bank information over the phone. The best way to prevent these scams is to avoid answering calls from unknown callers. In addition, the FCC has guidance on robocalls and other types of scam calls in this guide.

Interested in Special Touch Home Care?

Knowing these different scams could help protect you and your loved ones. In addition, if you get a strange call, email, or message, we strongly recommend always conducting an online search to see if other people have received similar messages. If you can identify the scam early on, you can avoid becoming a victim. Of course, trends are constantly changing regarding scams, so it’s always a good idea to stay vigilant.

If you have someone in your life interested in in-home care or if you’re interested in receiving care at home yourself, we hope you will reach out to us. Special Touch Home Care helps loved ones get the care they need to live comfortably and independently in the comfort of their own home.