Why Seniors Are Targeted by Scammers — And How to Stay One Step Ahead

Every year, millions of older adults are targeted by scammers. According to the FBI, seniors lose billions of dollars annually to fraud — and those are only the reported cases. Behind every number is a real story: a fake phone call, a suspicious email, or an online “friend” who wasn’t real at all.

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be a victim. Once you understand why scammers go after seniors and learn their most common tricks, you’ll be in a much better position to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Why Do Scammers Target Seniors?

Scammers don’t pick victims at random. They often focus on older adults for a few specific reasons:

1. Trusting Nature: Many seniors grew up in a time when people trusted one another more. Scammers take advantage of this kindness and willingness to believe the best in people.

2. Less Familiar with Technology: Seniors didn’t grow up with smartphones and social media. That can make it harder to spot fake websites, scam emails, or tricky apps.

3. Financial Security: Scammers assume older adults may have retirement savings, pensions, or home equity that they can exploit.

4. Fear and Urgency: Criminals know which buttons to push — fear of losing money, fear of breaking the law, or concern for a loved one. Urgent messages are often aimed at seniors because they can create quick panic.

The Most Common Scams Targeting Seniors

While scams come in many forms, a few types show up again and again:

• Impersonation scams: Someone pretends to be your bank, the IRS, Social Security, or even your utility company.

• Grandparent scams: A caller claims to be your grandchild in trouble and asks for money right away.

• Medicare or health scams: Fake representatives ask for your Medicare number or try to sell fake insurance.

• Prize and lottery scams: Messages saying you’ve “won” a contest you never entered.

• Romance scams: Online “relationships” that turn into requests for money.

• Tech support scams: A pop-up warns your computer has a virus and asks you to call a fake support number.

Key tip: If someone reaches out unexpectedly and asks for money or personal information, it’s a red flag.

How to Stay One Step Ahead

The good news is that staying safe doesn’t require complicated tech skills. With a few smart habits, you can avoid most scams.

1. Slow Down

Scammers want you to act quickly. Whether it’s a phone call saying your account will be closed or an email warning you of “legal trouble,” the trick is the same: they create panic so you don’t think. Take a deep breath. Real companies will always give you time to confirm details.

2. Verify, Don’t Trust

If you get a suspicious message:

• Don’t click links in the email or text.

• Don’t call the number they provide.

• Instead, look up the company’s official website or phone number and contact them directly.

3. Guard Your Personal Information

• Never share Social Security, Medicare, or banking details with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.

• If someone insists they “just need to confirm your account,” hang up.

4. Use Strong Passwords and Updates

• A secure password (see our guide here) is one of the best protections against hackers.

• Keep your phone and computer updated so you have the latest security fixes.

5. Talk With Family

Scammers rely on silence. If you’re ever unsure about a message or call, share it with a trusted family member. Two sets of eyes are better than one.

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

Even if you’ve been careful, it’s possible to slip up. If you think you’ve been targeted:

1. Stop contact immediately. Don’t respond to the scammer again.

2. Protect your accounts. Change passwords right away. Call your bank if you gave financial info.

3. Report it. File a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

4. Ask for help. Don’t feel embarrassed — millions of people fall for scams. Talking with family or professionals can help you recover quickly.

Everyday Safety Habits

Here are some small daily steps that add up to big protection:

• Let unknown calls go to voicemail.

• Think twice before clicking on email links.

• Use caller ID to screen suspicious numbers.

• Set up two-factor authentication for important accounts (like banking and email).

• Regularly review credit card and bank statements for unusual charges.

Final Word

Seniors may be prime targets for scammers, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a victim. By understanding why criminals target older adults and learning their most common tricks, you’ll be ready to spot scams before they happen.

The bottom line: slow down, verify information, and talk to someone you trust. With these habits, you’ll always stay one step ahead.

At ShieldWise, we’re dedicated to helping older adults and their families feel safe, informed, and confident online. A little knowledge goes a long way — and together, we can outsmart the scammers. If you feel you need a little bit of help, check out our services here.