Protect Yourself from Elder Fraud

How to Recognize Common Scams and What to Do If You're Targeted

Financial scams targeting older adults are becoming more sophisticated every year. Criminals often use fear, urgency, or emotional manipulation to steal money or personal information. The good news is that knowing the warning signs can help you avoid becoming a victim.

Below are some of the most common scams, red flags to watch for, and steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

The Most Common Elder Fraud Scams

Government Imposter Scams

Scammers pretend to be representatives from agencies such as the Social Security Administration, the IRS, Medicare, or law enforcement. They often claim you owe money, your benefits are in danger, or your identify has been compromised.

Remember: Government agencies will not demand immediate payment over the phone or ask you pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

Grandparent & Family Emergency Scams

A caller claims to be a grandchild, relative, or even an attorney representing a loved one who has been in an accident, arrested, or stranded while traveling. They beg you to send money immediately and often ask you not to tell anyone.

Before sending money, always contact your family member directly using a trusted phone number.

Tech Support Scams

You receive a phone call, e-mail, text, or pop-up message warning you that your computer has a virus. The scammer offers to "fix" the problem for a fee or asks for remote access to your computer.

Never allow an unknown person remote access to your computer.

Romance Scams

Scammers develop online relationships through dating websites or social media. After building trust, they create an emergency and ask for money.

Be cautious of anyone you've never met in person who asks for financial help.

Lottery & Prize Scams

You're told you've won a sweepstakes, lottery, or prize—but first you must pay taxes, fees, or shipping costs.

If you have to pay to claim a prize, it's almost certainly a scam.

Bank Imposter Scams

A caller or text message claims to be form your bank and says your account has suspicious activity. They ask you to verify your account number, PIN, passwords, or online banking credentials.

Hang up and call your bank using the phone number on the back of your debit or credit card.

Common Warning Signs of a Scam

Be suspicious if someone:

• Demands immediate payment or creates a sense of urgency.
• Claims to be a family member or government agency without proof.
• Asks you to pay with gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps.
• Requests your Social Security number, bank account information, passwords, or other personal information.
• Pressures you to keep the conversation secret from family members or friends.

What To Do If You Suspect a Scam

If something doesn't feel right:

1. Stop and think. Don't let anyone pressure you into making a quick decision.
2. Hang up the phone and stop responding to messages.
3. Talk to someone you trust, such as a family member, friend, attorney, or financial advisor.
4. Contact your bank or credit card company immediately if you shared financial information or sent money.
5. Report the scam to the appropriate authorities.

Fraud Help & Reporting Resources

If you've been targeted by a scam—or simply want to verify whether something is legitimate—these organizations can help.

Stay Vigilant

Scammers are constantly changing their tactics, but one thing remains the same: the rely on fear, urgency, and isolation. Taking a moment to verify information and discussing suspicious requests with someone you trust can prevent financial loss and protect your identify.

If you or a loved one have concerns about financial exploitation, powers of attorney, estate planning, or protecting assets as you age, the experienced Elder Law attorneys at DeLoach, Hofstra & Cavonis are here to help.