Have you ever answered a call that just felt ... off? Maybe it sounded polite or even friendly, and then, before you knew it, the caller was asking for money or personal details.
This has happened to many of us, but living in a multigenerational home, I see this reality play out even more often. My mother-in-law will ask me to review an email or put a call on speakerphone and see what I think. She's not being overly cautious. She's being smart. The reality is simple: scammers look for trust, generosity, and a willingness to help—qualities that should be celebrated, not exploited.
The statistics tell the story. Reports to the Federal Trade Commission show that between 2020 and 2024, losses of $100,000 or more among older adults rose nearly sevenfold. But here's what matters more: understanding the common tricks and warning signs puts the power back in your hands.
Red Flags That Should Make You Pause
Before diving into specific scams, let's talk about the patterns. Scammers may change the details, but the tactics they use are remarkably consistent. The scam often begins with something anchored in reality. Then, they create urgency, apply pressure, insist on secrecy, or dangle deals that seem too good to pass up. Recognizing that rhythm can help you stop and take a second look.
Watch for these warning signs:
Urgency: "Act now or lose everything!" Legitimate businesses don't operate this way.
Secrecy: If someone insists you don't tell anyone—even those you trust—that's your cue to do precisely the opposite.
Strange payment methods: Gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers to unknown recipients are red flags.
Too good to be true offers: Free prizes, guaranteed returns, or "exclusive" deals rarely hold up under scrutiny.
Here's the thing: even if a message or call sounds convincing, remembering these red flags gives you permission to slow down, seek advice, and protect yourself from decisions you might regret.
Phone and Tech Support Scams
You get a call or see a computer pop-up warning that your account is compromised or your device has a virus. The message sounds urgent, even threatening. They pressure you to provide remote access or demand payment to "fix" the problem.
The Federal Trade Commission has warned of a sharp rise in these impersonation scams, with losses among adults over 60 climbing dramatically.
Your best response? Hang up or close the pop-up. Call your provider directly using a number you know is legitimate. No reputable company will demand remote access or gift card payments. The relief of simply hanging up—and knowing you didn't lose money—is worth ignoring that pressure to act fast.
Medicare and Healthcare Impersonation
Another common tactic involves impersonating Medicare or healthcare providers. You may be offered "free" medical equipment or told you need to update your records. The real goal is stealing your Medicare or Social Security number.
Never share personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call with a verified number. If something sounds unusual, check directly with your doctor's office or Medicare for confirmation. Taking a pause before responding protects you from making a decision in the moment that you can't undo later.
"Grandchild in Danger" and Romance Scams
Some of the most heartbreaking scams prey on love and concern. You might receive a call claiming a grandchild is in trouble—sometimes even using AI technology to mimic their voice. Or you may meet someone online who quickly becomes affectionate, only to ask for money to handle an "emergency."
These scams work because they tap into genuine emotions. A good safeguard is setting a family "safe word" so you can verify if a loved one is truly in danger. When it comes to online relationships, romance scams have become increasingly sophisticated, often targeting seniors specifically through dating apps and social media platforms.
Remember: requests for secrecy or financial help are major warning signs. These are often the moments when discussing it with someone you trust makes all the difference.
Fake Charities and Disaster Relief Appeals
In the wake of natural disasters or around the holidays, scammers pose as charities. They pressure you to donate immediately or refuse to provide details about how funds are used. Your generosity is a strength, but ensure it reaches those who truly need help.
Verify charities through trusted databases, such as Charity Navigator, or visit the organization's official website directly. If you feel pressured to give on the spot, that's your signal to slow down. Real charities will welcome your donation tomorrow.
Financial Investment Scams
Promises of "guaranteed" returns or "can't-miss" opportunities often come with pressure to invest quickly. Law enforcement has reported an increase in so-called "pig butchering" scams: long-term cons where fraudsters build trust, sometimes even posing as romantic partners, before pushing fake investments.
Always consult with a trusted financial advisor or family member before making investment decisions. One conversation with someone who understands finances can save you from losing retirement savings.
How to Talk About Scams With Loved Ones
Open conversations make everyone safer. Scammers count on silence and embarrassment to keep people from sharing their experiences.
When talking with family:
Share your own brushes with scams to normalize the experience. Avoid blame—remember, scammers are professionals at manipulation. Encourage questions and second opinions before making financial decisions.
By talking openly, you create a protective environment around your family and community. Families that make this a regular part of their conversations are better prepared to spot trouble early.
When Something Goes Wrong
If you've shared information or lost money, acting quickly can reduce the harm. There's no shame in being targeted—what matters is what you do next.
Take these steps:
Report it: Contact the FTC, your state attorney general, or local police. The AARP Fraud Watch Network provides valuable resources and support.
Secure your finances: Call your bank or credit card company to freeze accounts and monitor for suspicious activity.
Get professional support: In complex cases, families sometimes turn to police officers or private investigators to trace fraud, gather evidence, or stop further harm. These professionals can help navigate difficult situations discreetly and effectively.
You don't have to face this alone. Support is available at every step—from national hotlines and local agencies to financial institutions and trusted professionals.
The Bottom Line
Scams are an unfortunate reality, but awareness is your strongest defense. By staying alert to warning signs, recognizing common schemes, and knowing when to reach out for help, you protect your finances and peace of mind.
The numbers are staggering: Americans over 60 lost more than $700 million to scams in early 2025 alone. But here's what those numbers don't show—every time you pause, ask a question, or choose not to share information, you're taking back control.
Staying aware means you can focus on what matters most: enjoying this season of life, making memories, and sharing meaningful time with loved ones. That's worth protecting.
