How Scammers Trick Seniors: Common Tactics to Watch For
As we get older, we learn a lot—how to handle tough times, how to care for others, and how to protect what matters most. But today, there’s a new kind of danger that’s hard to see: scammers.
Scammers use tricks—called scam tactics—to get you to give up your money or personal information. These people can sound kind and helpful. They often seem “official.” But their goal is simple: to fool you.
If you’re 65 or older, it’s especially important to learn how these tactics work. According to the National Council on Aging, older adults lose billions of dollars each year to fraud. Scammers often target seniors because they think older adults are more polite, trusting, and less likely to report the crime.
But here’s the good news: the more you know, the safer you are. Below are the most common scam tactics you should know about.
Causing Fear
Scammers often try to scare you into acting fast. They might say:
“Your bank account has been hacked!”
“Your grandchild is in trouble!”
“You owe the IRS money!”
They want you to feel afraid so you don’t stop to think.
How to Stay Safe: If someone pressures you with fear, take a deep breath and hang up. Call a family member or friend before taking action.
Sense of Urgency (Act Now!)
One of the oldest tricks in the book: make you feel like you have no time to decide.
They might say:
“This offer expires today!”
“Send money right now or something bad will happen.”
Scammers use urgency to stop you from asking questions or getting advice.
How to Stay Safe: Always take your time. Real businesses will give you time to think and check things out.
Pretending to Be Someone You Trust
Scammers are great at pretending. They might act like:
A bank worker
A Medicare representative
A grandchild
A government agent
They use fake names, caller ID tricks, or even recordings that sound real.
How to Stay Safe: Hang up and call the official number you know is real. Never trust a caller just because they “sound official.”
Asking for Personal Information
Once they gain your trust, scammers often ask for:
Your Social Security number
Bank account or credit card numbers
Medicare ID number
Passwords
They may say they need it to fix a problem or send you money.
How to Stay Safe: Never give out personal information to someone who calls, emails, or texts you. If you're unsure, talk to someone you trust first.
Offering Something That Sounds “Too Good to Be True”
Scammers love to make big promises, like:
“You’ve won a prize!”
“We can double your money!”
“This investment is guaranteed!”
But if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
How to Stay Safe: Be cautious. Real offers don’t pressure you or promise huge rewards for doing nothing.
Building a Relationship (Emotional Tricks)
Some scammers take their time. They call often, act friendly, and build trust. This is called “emotional manipulation.” Over time, they ask for money, gifts, or favors.
How to Stay Safe: Be careful with people you meet online or on the phone. If someone asks for money, even after weeks or months of talking, it’s likely a scam.
Scammers are clever, but once you learn their tricks, you’re much harder to fool. Remember: it’s always okay to slow down, hang up, or ask for help. Talk to a friend, a family member, or even your local bank if you’re unsure. Staying connected and asking questions is one of the best ways to stay safe.
Sources:
National Council on Aging: “Top 5 Financial Scams Targeting Seniors.” https://www.ncoa.org/article/top-5-financial-scams-targeting-older-adults/
AARP Fraud Watch Network: “Scams & Fraud”
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/Federal Trade Commission (FTC): “How to Avoid a Scam”
https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scam