In 2024, senior citizens across the United States suffered over $4.9 billion in losses due to scams and fraudulent schemes, according to a recent FBI report. The scale and sophistication of these scams have intensified, making older adults prime targets for criminals using both old tricks and new digital tactics. Understanding how these scams work and learning how to spot them can be critical for avoiding financial disaster.

This article will break down the most common types of scams targeting seniors in 2024, explain why older adults are especially vulnerable, and provide practical strategies to protect yourself or a loved one.

Why Are Seniors Targeted?

Scammers often see seniors as ideal victims for a variety of reasons:

• Financial stability: Many older adults have retirement savings, own their homes, or receive regular Social Security benefits.
• Trust in authority: Seniors are more likely to believe someone claiming to be from a legitimate organization, such as the IRS or their bank.
• Isolation: Those living alone may be more receptive to phone calls or messages from strangers.
• Less digital fluency: Seniors may not be as familiar with scam tactics involving email, social media, or cryptocurrency.

Common Types of Scams in 2024

1. Tech Support Scams

Scammers pose as tech support agents from well-known companies like Microsoft or Apple. They claim your computer has a virus and request remote access to “fix” it. Once inside, they may steal data, install ransomware, or demand payment for fake services.

2. Government Impersonation Scams

These scams involve callers pretending to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, or Medicare. Victims are told there’s a problem with their account or benefits and must verify personal information or send payment to avoid arrest or loss of benefits.

3. Romance Scams

A scammer builds an online relationship with a senior through dating apps or social media. Once trust is built, they fabricate a crisis—like needing money for a hospital bill or travel—and convince the victim to send funds.

4. Grandparent Scams

A criminal poses as a grandchild or family member in distress, often saying they’re in jail or injured and need money urgently. The scam relies on emotional manipulation and pressure to act quickly.

5. Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams

Scammers promise high returns on investments or introduce seniors to fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes. These scams often use fake websites, testimonials, and pressure tactics to get victims to part with their savings.

6. Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams

Seniors receive calls, emails, or letters claiming they’ve won a large prize but must first pay taxes or processing fees. In reality, there is no prize, and any money sent is lost.

7. Online Shopping Scams

Fake websites or ads on social media sell items that are never delivered. Seniors may also fall for subscription traps that are hard to cancel.

8. Utility Scams

Scammers call pretending to be from the electric or water company, threatening to shut off services unless immediate payment is made.

9. Charity Scams

Criminals exploit seniors’ generosity by pretending to be from a legitimate charity, especially after natural disasters or during the holiday season.

10. Medical and Prescription Scams

Fraudsters offer discounted medications or medical devices online that are either fake or never arrive, or they pose as Medicare representatives to steal sensitive information.

Warning Signs of a Scam

Recognizing a scam in progress can be difficult, especially when scammers are highly convincing. Here are key red flags:

• You receive unsolicited calls or emails asking for personal or financial information.
• There is a sense of urgency or fear: “Act now or lose everything.”
• You are asked to pay in unusual ways (gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency).
• Someone refuses to provide written documentation.
• The offer sounds too good to be true.
  
  

If any of these occur, pause and verify before proceeding.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Don’t Share Personal Info Over the Phone

Legitimate organizations will not ask for sensitive data like your Social Security number or banking information over the phone. Always hang up and call back using a verified number.

2. Use Call Blocking Technology

Install a call-blocking app or activate spam filters on your phone to reduce robocalls and potential scam attempts.

3. Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Whenever possible, add an extra layer of security to your online accounts using 2FA, which requires a password and a one-time code sent to your device.

4. Keep Your Devices Updated

Software updates often include critical security patches. Keeping your devices up to date reduces vulnerabilities scammers can exploit.

5. Check with Family Before Sending Money

Always verify emergency requests with another family member, even if the caller insists on secrecy.

6. Research Charities Before Donating

Look up charities on sites like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.

7. Be Skeptical of High-Pressure Tactics

If someone is rushing you to make a decision or trying to make you panic, that’s a major red flag.

8. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Use a strong password for your home Wi-Fi to prevent others from accessing your internet and potentially stealing your data.

9. Review Bank and Credit Card Statements Regularly

Look for unusual charges and report anything suspicious immediately.

10. Enroll in Identity Monitoring Services

Services like iDefend offer real-time fraud alerts, dark web scans, and expert assistance to monitor your personal information and protect you from scams.

How to Tell If It’s a Scam

When in doubt, remember these simple rules:

• Slow down. Scammers rely on urgency.
• Verify independently. Look up official contact information online before taking action.
• Talk to someone you trust. A second opinion can save you from making a costly mistake.

Scammers are evolving, but so can your defenses. Awareness is your first line of protection—and with the right tools, you can outsmart even the most convincing con artist. Stay alert, talk to loved ones, and consider services like iDefend to support your safety journey.

Take Action: Protect Yourself with iDefend

With scams on the rise, seniors need more than just awareness—they need protection. iDefend offers comprehensive tools to help safeguard your identity and finances:

• Real-time fraud alerts
• Expert assistance with suspicious activity
• Removal of your personal data from data broker sites
• Guidance on how to avoid phishing and scam attempts
  
  

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Stay informed, stay cautious, and take control of your safety. Learn more about how iDefend can help you and your loved ones stay protected in today’s digital world.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take control of your digital safety today with iDefend. Try iDefend risk free for 14 days now!