Do you know a widow or long-time divorcee whose boyfriend works in the middle of the ocean on an oil rig? There’s an unfortunate good chance that you do. Elder fraud is common and there are many methods to swindle money from unsuspecting seniors, who tend to be targets because they are often trusting and polite. They are also less likely to report fraud due to shame, embarrassment, or not knowing who to contact.
One type of elder fraud is romance scams. Criminals pose as interested romantic partners on social media or dating websites with the intention of capitalizing on elderly victims’ desire to find companions. They may claim to be in love and will ask for money to “get home,” either to see the unsuspecting victim or to escape deplorable living conditions.
Tech support scams are criminals posing as technical support representatives who offer to fix non-existent computer issues. The scammers may collect money and/or gain remote access to the victims’ devices and sensitive information.
Grandparent scams are a type of fraud where criminals pose as a relative, usually a child or grandchild, claiming to have an urgent financial need.
Government impersonation scams describe criminals who pose as government employees and threaten to arrest or prosecute victims unless they agree to provide payments.
Sweepstakes and lottery scams offer prizes that can be collected for a “fee.”
Home repair scams are often in person and charge homeowners in advance for work they never provide or aren’t qualified to do.
Advertising scams offer illegitimate information about legitimate services, such as reverse mortgage or credit repair.
The common denominator in all of these scams is money. Take note of these tips and share them with others to help prevent becoming a victim of fraud:
Scammers create a sense of urgency to produce fear. Resist the pressure to act quickly.
Call the police if you feel there is danger to yourself or a loved one.
Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, messages, emails, and door-to-door service offers.
Never give or send any personally identifiable information, money, gold or precious metals, jewelry gift cards, checks, or wire information to unverified people or businesses.
Use up-to-date and reputable anti-virus software and firewalls.
Enable pop-up blockers.
Be careful what you download. Be wary of any email attachments sent to you and never open an email attachment from someone you don’t know.
If a criminal gains access to your device or account, immediately contact your financial institutions and monitor your accounts and personal information for suspicious activity.
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