National Senior Fraud Awareness Day, observed annually on May 15, serves as a critical reminder of the importance of safeguarding our aging loved ones from the growing threat of scams and financial exploitation. Sadly, senior fraud seems especially rampant in the state of Florida. As our senior population continues to grow, so too does the number of targeted fraud attempts. Whether you have elderly family members or simply want to stay informed, awareness is one of the most powerful tools in preventing these harmful schemes.
Fraudsters often prey on seniors because they may be more trusting, may not be as tech-savvy, or may be more socially isolated. These factors can make them vulnerable to manipulation—especially by scammers who sound convincing and professional. Below are some of the most common types of scams targeting seniors, along with a few practical tips for prevention.
1. Tech Support Scams
In these scams, criminals pose as technicians from well-known tech companies, claiming your computer or device has a virus or malfunction. They’ll urge you to grant them remote access to “fix” the issue—when in reality, they’re stealing personal data or installing malware.
Red Flag: Unsolicited calls or pop-ups urging immediate tech support.
Tip: Legitimate companies won’t call you out of the blue. Hang up and contact your provider directly if in doubt.
2. Government Impersonation Scams
Scammers often claim to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, or Medicare, threatening fines, legal action, or loss of benefits unless personal information is provided. These tactics are designed to create fear and urgency.
Red Flag: Demands for payment or personal information over the phone.
Tip: Government agencies will never call to demand immediate payment or threaten arrest.
3. Grandparent Scams
These scams are emotionally manipulative. A fraudster calls pretending to be a grandchild in distress—often saying they’ve been arrested or hospitalized and need money urgently. They may beg the grandparent not to tell anyone, adding pressure.
Red Flag: A call or message claiming to be a grandchild who needs emergency money.
Tip: Always verify the situation by calling the actual family member or another relative.
4. Romance Scams
Romance scams begin with fake profiles on dating or social media platforms. Scammers build emotional connections over weeks or months, then start requesting money—claiming to need it for travel, medical bills, or emergencies.
Red Flag: Online relationships that become overly personal too quickly or lead to financial requests.
Tip: Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
5. Medicare Scams
Here, scammers impersonate Medicare representatives offering bogus tests, equipment, or procedures in exchange for Medicare numbers or other sensitive information.
Red Flag: Unsolicited calls offering “free” medical equipment or services.
Tip: Hang up and report the call to Medicare. Do not give out your Medicare number unless you’ve initiated the contact.
6. Sweepstakes & Lottery Scams
Victims are told they’ve won a contest or prize—but must pay upfront taxes or fees to claim it. These scams are designed to sound exciting and time-sensitive to push victims into acting fast.
Red Flag: Requests for payment to claim a prize.
Tip: You can’t win a sweepstakes you didn’t enter, and legitimate prizes never require payment upfront.
How You Can Help
Preventing senior fraud starts with education and conversation. Talk openly with your loved ones about these common scams. Encourage them to:
- Never share personal information over the phone or internet unless they’re certain of who they’re dealing with.
- Pause and verify before acting on emotional or urgent requests.
- Report suspicious activity to trusted sources.
Helpful Resource: Encourage your loved ones to report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) via www.reportfraud.ftc.gov or call the Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).
Raising awareness on National Senior Fraud Awareness Day is just one step, but it’s an important one. By staying vigilant, spreading information, and empowering seniors to recognize red flags, we can help reduce the risk of exploitation and protect their financial well-being and peace of mind.