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Common Scams Targeting Older Adults

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Quick answer

Common scams targeting older adults include Medicare and Social Security imposters, grandparent emergency scams, romance scams, tech-support scams, government-imposter and prize scams. The FBI reports adults 60+ lose billions yearly. The shared red flags are urgency, secrecy, and demands for gift cards, wire, or crypto. Report fraud at 1-833-372-8311.

Most scams aimed at seniors share the same warning signs once you know what to look for.

What are the most common scams targeting older adults?

The frauds seniors face most include: Medicare and health-insurance scams seeking your Medicare number; Social Security imposters threatening your benefits; grandparent or family-emergency scams demanding secret money; romance scams from fake online partners; tech-support scams using fake virus alerts; government and IRS imposters threatening arrest; prize, lottery, and sweepstakes scams charging 'fees' to claim winnings; and home-repair or charity scams. The FBI's Elder Fraud Report has documented billions in annual losses among adults 60 and older. Different cover stories, same goal: separate you from your money or personal information quickly and quietly.

What red flags do nearly all these scams share?

Across every scam type, the same tells appear. There is urgency ('act now or lose your benefits'), secrecy ('don't tell anyone'), and unusual payment demands (gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash by courier). Scammers impersonate trusted names, spoof caller ID, and pressure you past your better judgment. They contact you out of the blue and discourage you from verifying. If you train yourself to pause whenever you feel rushed, frightened, or sworn to secrecy, you will catch the vast majority of scams, regardless of the story. The single best defense is to hang up and verify independently.

How do I protect myself and loved ones?

Adopt a few firm habits: never decide or pay during an unexpected call, never share your Medicare or Social Security number with unsolicited callers, and never pay with gift cards or wire transfers at a stranger's request. Freeze your credit, register at DoNotCall.gov, and let unknown calls go to voicemail. Agree on a family 'safe word' for emergencies, and review financial and Medicare statements monthly. When something feels off, talk to someone you trust before acting. For free, plain-English help deciding whether an offer is legitimate, call 1-800-MEDIGAP.

More on Elder Fraud, Scams & ID Theft

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Frequently asked questions

Which scam costs seniors the most money?+

Losses vary year to year, but tech-support, investment, romance, and government-imposter scams consistently rank among the costliest for adults 60+, according to the FBI's Elder Fraud Report. Per-victim losses are often highest in romance and investment scams, where trust builds over time before large sums are requested.

Why are older adults targeted so often?+

Scammers target seniors for retirement savings and home equity, and because some may be more trusting, isolated, or less familiar with new technology. The shame of being scammed also makes some victims slow to report, which criminals exploit. Awareness and open conversation are powerful defenses.

What payment methods should always raise alarm?+

Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, payment apps to strangers, and cash sent by mail or courier are hallmarks of scams. Legitimate businesses and agencies do not demand these. Any urgent request to pay this way should be treated as fraud and verified before acting.

How can families talk about scams without conflict?+

Frame protection as a shared household rule rather than a judgment, and adopt the same habits yourself. Use real examples, agree on a safe word, and emphasize that scams fool everyone. The goal is for loved ones to call you early, before money moves, without fear of blame.

Where do I report or get help understanding a scam?+

Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) for free help deciding if a call or offer is legitimate. Report fraud to the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311 and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov; use 1-800-MEDICARE for Medicare issues.

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