Senior Scams: What You Need to Know

There are many kind and generous people in the world—neighbors who volunteer their time, strangers who hold the door open, or friends who help without hesitation. But with the good also comes the bad. Unfortunately, scammers often target vulnerable groups, especially seniors.

Knowing what scams to watch for is the first step in protecting yourself and your loved ones.

Common Senior Scams to Watch Out For

1. Fake Facebook Friends

The Better Business Bureau warns about government grant scams on Facebook. Scammers create fake profiles that look like your real friends. They message you, claiming they received a government grant and encourage you to apply. The catch? You must pay an application fee or make an initial “investment.”

Lessons:

• Not every Facebook profile is real—even if it looks like a friend.
• All legitimate federal grants are listed on www.grants.gov.
• Government agencies will not contact you through social media.

2. Scam Emails, Pop-Ups, and Fake Bank Transfers

Scammers may send emails saying your computer has a virus. In one case, a company called “Premium Tech Support” charged $599 to “fix” a senior’s computer. Later, they claimed to accidentally deposit $80,000 into his account and pressured him to return the money. The transfer was fake, and the victim lost thousands.

In another example, a pop-up warned a senior about a virus. After calling “customer support,” the scammer took control of the computer, demanded payment for the fake virus removal, and gained access to sensitive information.

Lessons:

• Research companies before paying for services.
• If you think there’s a bank error, call your bank directly.
• Never allow third-party access to your computer unless you initiated the contact.

3. Home Repair Scams

These scams often involve someone offering cheap repair work, then demanding much more after the job. Others perform repairs you never requested, impersonate inspectors, or threaten to place a lien on your home if you don’t comply.

Lessons:

• Always get multiple estimates before hiring anyone.
• Don’t feel guilty saying no—it’s your choice.
• If a scammer offers a “last-minute deal,” walk away.

4. Romance Scams

Seniors can be especially vulnerable to loneliness, particularly after COVID-19 restrictions. While many legitimate dating sites exist, scammers create fake profiles to lure people into false relationships. They may ask for money, bank information, or gift cards.

In one tragic case, a senior woman was tricked into carrying drugs overseas after believing she was helping her online partner. She was arrested and sentenced harshly.

Lessons:

• Don’t rush into relationships.
• If they won’t video chat, be cautious.
• Search their name and photos online.
• Meet in public if you decide to connect in person.
• Never send money unless you are absolutely sure it’s legitimate.

Why Seniors Don’t Report Scams

Scams are underreported. An estimated 2–3 million seniors are scammed each year, but only 1 in 44 cases is reported.

Why?

• Embarrassment or fear of being judged “unfit.”
• Worry that loved ones may place them in a nursing home.
• Scams sometimes involve family members, and victims don’t want to get them in trouble.

Where to Get Help

If you or someone you know has been scammed, there are resources available:

• Local Police Department
• Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116
• FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• National Institute of Justice
• National Adult Protective Services Association

Protect Yourself and Loved Ones

Scams can happen to anyone, but knowledge is your best defense. Talk openly with loved ones about risks, and keep these resources handy.

If you need guidance, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us at (207) 848-5600 or visit our Contact Page.