Scams Targeting Older Adults


How Families Can Help Prevent Scams

Older adults are frequent targets for fraud. Scammers often assume they are trusting, polite, or less familiar with new technology. But these schemes don’t just affect individuals—they impact entire families. By learning the red flags, you can protect yourself and help safeguard the people you love.

 

Common Scams to Watch For (and Their Red Flags)

Government Impersonation Scams

  • Caller demands immediate payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
  • Threats of arrest, loss of benefits, or deportation if you don’t comply.
  • Official-looking emails or texts with links to “verify” your account—real agencies won’t do this.

Romance Scams

  • Avoids meeting in person or video chatting.
  • Requests for urgent financial help.
  • Overly affectionate language early in the relationship.

Family Emergency (Grandparent) Scams

  • Caller begs you not to tell anyone else.
  • Chaotic background noise to sound convincing.
  • Requests for secrecy and immediate payment.

Lottery or Sweepstakes Scams

  • Claims you must “act now” to secure winnings.
  • Requests for payment before you receive your prize.
  • Emails or messages with links to “claim” your prize. These often lead to fake websites or malware.

Tech Support Scams

  • Unsolicited calls or pop-ups about infections.
  • Requests for remote access to your device.
  • Links to sites that appear official but capture your information.

Shipping and Retail Scams

  • Unexpected texts about deliveries or recalls when you haven’t ordered anything.
  • Links that don’t lead to the official company’s website.
  • Requests to enter login, credit card, or personal information.

 

How to Protect Yourself: Remember SHIELD

• Stop & Think before you act.
• Hang Up on suspicious calls.
• Identify the Source through trusted channels.
• Enable Security Features on your accounts.
• Look for Red Flags like secrecy, payment demands, or links in unexpected texts.
• Don’t Share Personal Info unless you’re certain who you’re speaking with.

Fraud affects us all—but awareness is the best defense. If you or a loved one may be the target of a scam, contact F&M Bank right away. Our team is here to help. You can also explore more resources in our  Security Center.