15 Online Scams Targeting Seniors in 2026: FBI Warning List

Americans aged 60 and older lost over $5 billion to digital scams in 2024. Online fraud against seniors is growing as scammers refine their methods.

The numbers are alarming. Since 2020, the number of older adults reporting losses of $10,000 or more has increased more than fourfold. Reports of seniors losing over $100,000 have grown nearly sevenfold. Investment fraud is the costliest category, with Americans losing $6.5 billion in 2024.

Seniors make attractive targets. They have accumulated savings and retirement funds. Many are less familiar with digital technology, which creates openings for scammers. Elderly women face twice the risk of financial fraud compared to men. The FBI reports that 41% of seniors who lost $10,000 or more were contacted by phone.

Reported losses likely understate the problem. Older adults reported losing $1.9 billion to fraud in 2023, but the true cost is estimated at $61.5 billion. More than 101,000 seniors fell victim to financial scams that year.

This guide covers 15 common scams targeting seniors, based on recent FBI warnings. Understanding how these schemes work can help you spot them and protect your finances.

• Investment scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Tech support scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Romance scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Government impersonation scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Grandparent and emergency scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Sweepstakes and lottery scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Phone and telemarketing scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Homeowner and reverse mortgage scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Smishing and text message scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Obituary and funeral scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Phantom hacker scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Fake fraud department scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Refund scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Digital asset investment scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• AI voice cloning scams
  • Warning signs
  • How they work
  • How to protect yourself
• Comparison table
• Conclusion
• Key takeaways
• FAQs

Investment scams

Investment fraud is the most financially destructive scam targeting seniors. In one year, over 4,500 individuals over 60 lost nearly $1 billion to these schemes, according to the Department of Justice.

Warning signs

Watch for these red flags:

• Promises of guaranteed high returns with little or no risk
• High-pressure sales tactics pushing you to decide immediately
• Unsolicited investment offers through phone calls, emails, or social media
• Requests for unusual payment methods
• Limited information or overly complicated explanations about investments
• Claims of "insider information" or "secret methods" to generate wealth
• Free meal seminars that are actually sales pitches

How they work

These schemes prey on worries about money in retirement. Lonely seniors are especially vulnerable because isolation can cloud judgment and decision-making.

Scammers create urgency through fake crises or "limited-time" opportunities. They build trust by claiming shared interests, religious beliefs, or similar experiences. Cryptocurrency has become a common tool, with seniors losing over $716 million in reported losses during 2023.

Common schemes include pump-and-dump operations with penny stocks, Ponzi schemes promising unrealistic returns, and variable annuities that rarely benefit seniors.

How to protect yourself

Consider these steps:

• Verify credentials. Check if sellers are registered and licensed before investing.
• Research thoroughly. Use the SEC's EDGAR database to investigate companies.
• Get a second opinion. Discuss investment opportunities with trusted family members.
• Request written information about investments and keep transaction records.
• Avoid rushed decisions. Legitimate investments remain available beyond artificial deadlines.
• Diversify investments. Don't put all your money in a single opportunity.
• Report suspicious activity promptly to improve chances of fund recovery.

If an investment opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Tech support scams

Tech support fraud is the most frequently reported scam among older adults. Nearly 18,000 complaints and almost $600 million in losses. Combined with government impersonation schemes, these scams cost older adults $1.30 billion in 2023.

Warning signs

Watch for these red flags:

• Unsolicited calls claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or other tech companies
• Pop-up messages with alarming warnings about viruses or security breaches
• Requests for remote access to your computer
• Demands for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or money transfer apps
• Urgent messages claiming immediate action is necessary
• Offers of refunds for tech-related subscriptions you don't recall purchasing

How they work

These scams exploit seniors' concerns about technology. Seniors are five times more likely to report losses than younger people, with a median loss of $500, which is 25% higher than for younger victims.

Scammers typically contact you through unsolicited phone calls, texts, or frightening pop-up alerts on your device. They claim your computer has been infected or compromised, then offer to "fix" the nonexistent problem.

Once you grant remote access, they can install malware, steal personal information, or access financial accounts. Finally, they demand payment for their fraudulent "services."

How to protect yourself

Remember that legitimate tech companies never initiate unsolicited contact about computer issues. Hang up immediately on unexpected tech support calls. Never click links in pop-up warnings or provide remote access to your computer. Keep all computer security software updated.

• If you see suspicious pop-ups, disconnect from the internet and shut down your device. Report suspected scams to the FTC at FTC.gov/complaint. Contact trusted family members or legitimate tech support if you need help.
• Romance scams
• Romance scams cost older adults nearly $357 million in 2023, making them the third-highest type of internet fraud affecting seniors. The FBI reports over 6,740 people over 60 reported romance scam victimization in a single year.
• Warning signs
• These red flags often appear in romance scams:
• Profile photos that look too perfect or professional
• Requests to move conversations off dating platforms to messaging apps like WhatsApp

Lavish attention and quick professions of love

Consistent excuses to avoid video calls or in-person meetings

Stories about working abroad, commonly claiming to be military, physicians, or oil rig workers

Sudden requests for money, often for emergencies

• Poor grammar despite claiming fluency in English
• Minimal online presence or inconsistent personal details
• How they work
• Romance scammers create fake online personas on dating sites or social media, typically targeting recently widowed or divorced seniors. They exploit loneliness, seeking victims who live alone or have limited social interactions.
• Trust builds gradually through regular communication and emotional manipulation. Once emotional bonds develop, scammers fabricate urgent needs for financial help—medical emergencies, travel expenses, investment opportunities. These requests escalate over time, leaving victims financially devastated.
• Seniors are particularly vulnerable because many have substantial retirement savings and may be less familiar with digital platforms, making warning signs harder to recognize.
• How to protect yourself
• Never send money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to someone you haven't met in person. Verify identities using reverse image searches to check if photos are stolen. Keep communications on the dating platform until you've established real trust.

Request video calls early in relationships. Discuss new online relationships with trusted friends or family members for objective perspectives.

If you fall victim, report immediately to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. Contact the FTC and consider joining support groups for romance scam victims.

Government impersonation scams

These scams caused $789 million in losses in 2024 by exploiting older adults' trust in official institutions. They are particularly effective because they create immediate fear about losing essential services.

Warning signs

Watch for these signals:

Unsolicited calls, emails, or texts claiming to be from government agencies

Threats of arrest, deportation, or benefit suspension without immediate payment

Pressure to act quickly without time for verification

Demands for unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers

Caller ID showing government agency names (often "spoofed")

Requests for sensitive personal information like Social Security numbers

Claims about problems with your benefits requiring immediate resolution

• How they work
• Scammers impersonate trusted agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare, or the FTC. They often "spoof" official phone numbers to make their calls appear legitimate.
• They use three main tactics: claim someone is using your accounts fraudulently, say your information is involved in criminal activity like drug smuggling, or invent security problems requiring immediate action. The goal is always to create panic and prevent rational thinking.
• Many seniors comply out of fear of losing essential services. Since 2020, there has been a fourfold increase in seniors losing $10,000 or more to such scams.
• How to protect yourself
• Never transfer money based on unexpected calls or messages. Hang up immediately and contact the agency directly using official numbers you know are genuine.
• Legitimate government agencies never initiate contact requesting money or personal information. Official government websites always use .gov domains, not .org, .com, or .us.

Report suspicious communications to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Use call-blocking options to prevent scammers from reaching you.

Grandparent and emergency scams

These scams have become more sophisticated with AI voice cloning technology to impersonate loved ones in distress. Nearly half a million American seniors fell victim to fraud in 2022, losing between $1,000–$1,800 on average.

Warning signs

Watch for these red flags:

Callers who don't immediately identify themselves, hoping you'll volunteer a name

Frantic requests for immediate financial help with a crisis

Insisting on secrecy ("please don't tell mom and dad")

Calls arriving late at night when you might be disoriented

Bringing in lawyers or police officers

Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency

How they work

These frauds begin with a phone call, text, or email from someone claiming to be your grandchild or relative in an emergency. Scammers create panic through accidents, arrests, or medical emergencies requiring immediate funds.

• Criminals now use AI to clone the voices of relatives from short audio clips found online. Once trust is established, the scammer passes the phone to an "authority figure" who provides payment instructions.
• Victims are pressured to transfer money immediately through methods difficult to trace or recover. Emotional manipulation prevents rational thinking and verification throughout.
• How to protect yourself
• Always verify emergencies by calling your family member directly on their known number. Create a unique family "code word" for real emergencies.
• Never rush financial decisions, no matter how urgent the situation seems. Take time to consult with trusted family members or friends, even when the caller insists on secrecy.
• Contact local law enforcement if you suspect a scam before sharing any personal information. Limit personal information shared on social media to reduce vulnerability to these scams.

Sweepstakes and lottery scams

Lottery and sweepstakes scams cost Americans $102 million in 2024. Seniors are the primary targets of these schemes, which remain among the most common financial frauds affecting older adults nationwide.

Warning signs

Watch for these signals:

Notifications about winning contests you never entered

Requirements to pay taxes or fees before receiving winnings. This is a major red flag. Legitimate lotteries, sweepstakes, or prize promotions never require upfront payment to claim winnings—not for "taxes," "processing," or "insurance." If asked to pay any amount before receiving your prize, it is almost certainly a scam.

Pressure to act quickly before the "offer expires"

Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency

Official-looking documents or props designed to appear legitimate

Communications from foreign lotteries or sweepstakes

Demands for personal or financial information

How they work

Scammers typically contact seniors claiming they've won Publishers Clearing House or another well-known sweepstakes. They explain that "winners" must first pay taxes, customs duties, or processing fees before collecting their prize.

• These criminals often impersonate lawyers, customs officials, or lottery representatives to build trust. No prize ever materializes. Victims are repeatedly contacted and convinced to send additional funds with promises that winnings will arrive soon.
• These scams can be surprisingly effective. Former FBI Director William Webster was targeted by fraudsters demanding $50,000 to claim a supposed $72 million prize.
• How to protect yourself
• Remember legitimate sweepstakes never require upfront payment. Ignore all unexpected lottery "wins." Verify contests independently through official channels.
• Consult with trusted family members before responding. Report suspicious communications immediately to the FTC. Never share personal information or make payments to claim prizes.
• These scams frequently target seniors in assisted living facilities who may experience loneliness or memory issues. Seniors and caregivers need to be aware.
• Phone and telemarketing scams

Phone scams represent the most financially damaging method for defrauding seniors, with median losses of $1,500 per victim. Older adults make more purchases over the phone than younger generations, creating additional opportunities for exploitation.

Warning signs

Watch for these signals:

Unsolicited calls with high-pressure sales tactics

Scammers create artificial urgency, requiring immediate action. This bypasses critical thinking, leading to hasty decisions with serious financial consequences.

Requests for unusual payment methods like gift cards

• Caller ID showing familiar organizations (often "spoofed")
• Offers that sound unrealistically generous
• How they work
• These schemes frequently use robocalls to contact large numbers of households at once. Scammers often pose as representatives from businesses, charities, or government agencies to build trust.
• Criminals commonly fabricate urgent situations such as "suspicious account activity" or "security problems" with your computer. They keep you on the phone to prevent you from consulting trusted friends or family members.
• How to protect yourself

Never send money or provide personal information based on unexpected phone calls. Hang up immediately and contact the organization directly using phone numbers from official sources. Use call-blocking technology to prevent scammers from reaching you.

Legitimate organizations never require immediate payment through gift cards or wire transfers. Maintaining skepticism toward unsolicited phone calls significantly reduces your risk of falling victim to these persistent threats.

Homeowner and reverse mortgage scams

Financial exploitation of elderly homeowners is a major problem. Senior adults lose an estimated $352 million to $1.5 billion annually to these schemes. Property ownership creates specific vulnerabilities that scammers target.

Warning signs

• Watch for these signals:
• Unsolicited offers claiming to lower property taxes or provide special refinancing
• Contractors pushing unnecessary home repairs and steering you toward "financing" options
• Requests for upfront fees or unusual payment methods
• Claims about "free government programs" with no repayment required

Pressure to sign documents immediately without review

Unusually high interest rates, excessive fees, or balloon payments

How they work

Criminals target homeowners aged 62 and older who have substantial home equity but limited cash flow. They often pose as "Senior Estate Planners" or government representatives, using high-pressure tactics to rush seniors into reverse mortgages without proper counseling.

Common schemes include contractors convincing seniors to finance unnecessary renovations or "flipping" schemes where they push seniors to buy new properties. Family members may secretly apply for reverse mortgages using seniors' information.

How to protect yourself

Consult HUD-approved housing counselors before considering reverse mortgages. Verify contractors through trusted references and state licensing agencies. Never sign documents containing blank fields.

Get binding contracts outlining project scope and costs. Discuss financial decisions with trusted family members. Report suspicious activity immediately to local authorities.

Remember that legitimate contractors and financial professionals will provide time for you to review documents and seek advice from trusted sources.

Smishing and text message scams

Smishing scams, which use text messages to deceive victims, surged 58% in 2021 and cost Americans over $10 billion. These text-based attacks have become more effective as seniors use smartphones more frequently.

• Warning signs
• These indicators can help you recognize fraudulent text messages:
• Messages claiming you've won prizes from contests you never entered
• Texts requesting sensitive personal or financial information
• Urgent messages about account problems requiring immediate action
• Suspicious links with unusual domain names

Texts with spelling or grammar errors

Messages appearing to be from government agencies like the DMV

How they work

Scammers create fake crises such as delivery problems, payment issues, or account security concerns. They often impersonate trusted organizations like Amazon, banks, or government agencies. Text messages are effective because they have a 90% open rate compared to email's 20%.

Criminals often copy official branding and use local area codes to appear legitimate. If you click fraudulent links, they send you to convincing fake websites that collect sensitive information.

• How to protect yourself
• Never click links or respond to suspicious texts, even to reply "STOP." Contact organizations directly using official phone numbers instead. Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) to alert your carrier.
• Consider enabling spam filtering in your phone settings and using specialized blocking apps. Remember that legitimate companies rarely request personal information through text messages.
• Obituary and funeral scams
• Some scams target families during their deepest grief. Obituary scams use death announcements to steal personal information and money from vulnerable families. The FBI warns about funeral and cemetery fraud. Scammers gather personal details from death announcements to commit identity theft.
• Warning signs

These warning signs often appear following a death announcement:

Unsolicited calls, texts, or emails from unknown persons

Strangers claiming the deceased owed them money

Demands for immediate payment via wire transfers or gift cards

Suspicious persons introducing themselves as long-lost friends

• Vague messages from unknown contacts referencing the deceased
• How they work
• Criminals scan obituaries for biographical information like birthdates, hometowns, and names of relatives. This data enables them to access accounts, open credit lines, obtain healthcare, and file fraudulent tax returns.
• Some scammers directly target grieving families by impersonating funeral homes, claiming additional payment is needed or the funeral will be canceled. Others exploit widows and widowers identified as vulnerable through death notices.
• How to protect yourself
• You can protect your family through careful planning. Limit personal details in obituaries; state the deceased's age but avoid exact birthdates. Withhold funeral times and locations from public announcements to prevent burglaries while homes are empty.

Contact credit bureaus, financial institutions, and government agencies immediately following a death. Check the deceased's credit report several months later for suspicious activity.

Verify all debt claims thoroughly. Family members generally aren't liable for the deceased's debts. These steps protect both your privacy and financial security during a difficult time.

Phantom hacker scams

Phantom hacker scams are a new FBI concern. In just six months of 2023, criminals stole over $542 million from victims. Nearly 50% of these victims were seniors over 60.

Warning signs

Watch for these signals:

Unexpected pop-ups, texts, or emails claiming your computer has security issues

Calls from supposed "tech support" wanting remote access to your computer

Multiple people contacting you about the same computer "problem"

Claims that foreign hackers have compromised your financial accounts

Pressure to move money to "protected" government accounts

• How they work
• These schemes use a three-stage approach. First, criminals pose as tech support representatives and convince you to download software giving them remote access to your computer.
• Second, different scammers call claiming to be bank representatives. They say foreign hackers have accessed your accounts and your money needs immediate transfer to "safe" government-protected accounts.
• Third, accomplices impersonate government officials to complete the deception. They may send official-looking letters to make their claims seem legitimate.
• How to protect yourself

Never click on unexpected pop-ups or download software from strangers. Most importantly, don't allow unknown people remote access to your computer.

Remember that legitimate government agencies never request money transfers through wire services, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. If someone contacts you about account problems, hang up and call your financial institution directly using numbers from your official statements.

Fake fraud department scams

Scammers impersonate fraud departments from banks and government agencies that seniors trust for financial protection. These criminals pose as representatives from institutions designed to help victims avoid fraud.

Warning signs

Watch for these signals:

Unexpected calls about "suspicious account activity"

Requests to transfer funds to "protect" your money

Representatives refusing to provide callbacks or verification options

Insistence on secrecy regarding your transactions

Multiple "officials" joining the conversation

How they work

• Criminals typically impersonate employees from trusted institutions like banks or the FTC. They create false alarms about account security, often working together to transfer victims between fake "specialists."
• These perpetrators often begin with computer security pop-ups before connecting victims with someone claiming to be from a government agency. Their strategy relies on making victims believe they're solving problems instead of sending money to strangers.
• How to protect yourself
• Never transfer money based on unexpected communications. Hang up immediately to call organizations directly using verified numbers. Use call blocking options on your phone.
• Report suspicious contacts to authorities promptly. Remember that legitimate fraud departments will never ask you to move money to "safe" accounts or demand immediate action over the phone.
• If an aging loved one begins making unusual financial requests—asking for large sums of money, wanting to invest in unfamiliar schemes, or suddenly wanting to change their will—this is a serious warning sign. These situations often point to potential vulnerabilities and risk of elder financial abuse. Discuss these requests with trusted family members or a financial advisor to protect your loved one's assets. Taking action early can help prevent major financial losses.

Refund scams

Refund scams convince seniors they're entitled to money back for services they never purchased. These schemes manipulate trust by creating a problem, then offering a solution that ultimately drains victims' bank accounts.

Warning signs

Watch for these common indicators:

Unexpected calls about refunds for products or services you never purchased

Claims that you're eligible for tax refunds you weren't expecting

Anyone requesting remote access to your computer for processing a refund

Statements that you've been "accidentally" refunded too much money

Urgent requests to return the "overpayment" via gift cards or wire transfers

How they work

These schemes often start when criminals contact you through pop-up alerts, phone calls, or emails, pretending to be from legitimate companies. They offer refunds for services they claim are being discontinued or purchases you didn't make.

Once engaged, they request remote access to your computer under the pretense of processing your refund. They then manipulate what you see on screen, making it appear they've transferred too much money to your account—like $20,000 instead of $200.

• Scammers then beg you to return the "excess" funds, claiming it will prevent them from losing their job. Victims believe they're just returning money, not realizing they're sending their own savings.
• How to protect yourself
• Never trust phone numbers provided in emails, texts, or pop-ups. Contact companies directly using official information from their websites. Review your account activities carefully to detect unauthorized transfers.
• Never allow strangers remote access to your computer or bank accounts. If anyone claims you've been refunded too much, immediately end communication and consult with a trusted family member or financial advisor.
• Digital asset investment scams

Cryptocurrency-related investment fraud cost older adults over $716 million in reported losses in 2023. FBI data shows seniors lost more than $3 billion to crypto scams in 2022. As digital currency becomes more mainstream, scammers increasingly target retirement savings through these complex schemes.

Warning signs

Watch for these red flags:

Unsolicited cryptocurrency investment opportunities, especially on social media

Pressure to convert cash to cryptocurrency via ATM-like kiosks

• Claims of guaranteed high returns with minimal risk are a major warning sign. These schemes often promise unrealistic profits, sometimes guaranteeing returns that far exceed market averages. All investments carry some risk. Anything promising a "sure thing" with high returns is likely fraudulent. Be wary of such claims.
• Requests to download suspicious applications or visit unfamiliar websites
• Anyone offering to "help" manage your crypto investments remotely
• How they work
• These frauds, often called "pig butchering" schemes, begin with scammers establishing trust before defrauding their victims. Criminals might offer small investments showing quick returns, gradually encouraging larger deposits. They often impersonate financial experts or use dating sites to build emotional connections.

The appeal for seniors lies in promises of recovering losses from traditional investments or generating income during retirement. Unfortunately, once you transfer money to cryptocurrency, it becomes virtually untraceable, making recovery nearly impossible.

How to protect yourself

Never pay in cryptocurrency based on unsolicited communications. Verify investment opportunities through trusted financial advisors who understand your complete financial picture. Remember legitimate government agencies never request cryptocurrency payments.

Report suspicious activities promptly to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. Most importantly, discuss any cryptocurrency investments with trusted family members before proceeding. If you're genuinely interested in digital assets, research through established financial institutions rather than responding to unsolicited offers.

AI voice cloning scams

• Voice manipulation technology represents one of the FBI's newest and most concerning fraud methods. Criminals use AI-enabled voice cloning tools to perfectly mimic your loved ones' voices, making these scams especially hard to detect. Senior citizens lost approximately $3.40 billion to various financial crimes in 2023.
• Warning signs
• These sophisticated attacks can be challenging to identify, but watch for these indicators:
• Unexpected calls with urgent money requests, even when the voice sounds familiar
• Callers who resist video calls or verification questions. Scammers work anonymously and don't want to use video or answer questions that might reveal their identity. Their resistance is a tactic to keep up the deception.

Requests for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency

Calls with background noise that might hide voice changes

Emotional manipulation creating panic to cloud judgment

How they work

Scammers can create convincing voice clones using just a few seconds of audio from social media posts or voicemails. With deep learning technology, criminals generate speech that sounds exactly like your family member. These scams often target grandparents by creating fake emergencies where a "grandchild" needs bail money or medical payments. Scammers may also spoof phone numbers to appear as known contacts.

The process works like this: criminals obtain audio samples, then use AI software to generate speech that sounds exactly like your family member. They create urgent scenarios designed to bypass your natural caution and verification instincts.

How to protect yourself

The most effective defense is to establish a family "safe word" that cannot be found online. This unique phrase verifies calls that seem suspicious. Always contact relatives directly using their known numbers before sending money, no matter how convincing the voice sounds.

You can also protect yourself by asking specific questions that only your real family member would know. Remember, legitimate emergencies can wait for proper verification. Take time to think clearly, even when someone claims to be in desperate trouble.

Comparison table

Understanding the scope and characteristics of different scam types can help you recognize threats and protect yourself or your loved one. This table summarizes key information about each scam category, including financial losses, warning signs, and protection strategies.

• Scam Type
• Reported Losses
• Primary Warning Signs
• Common Tactics
• Key Protection Methods

Investment Scams

$1 billion (2023)

Guaranteed high returns, high-pressure sales tactics

Creating urgency through fake crises, building trust through shared interests

Verify credentials, research thoroughly, get second opinions

Tech Support Scams

$600 million

Unsolicited calls from tech companies, pop-up warnings

Creating panic about computer issues, requesting remote access

Hang up on unsolicited calls, never allow remote access, keep software updated

• Romance Scams
• $357 million (2023)
• Quick professions of love, avoiding video calls
• Creating fake online personas, targeting recently widowed or divorced
• Never send money to unknown persons, verify identities, ask for video calls

Government Impersonation Scams

$789 million (2024)

Threats of arrest or benefit suspension, demands for unusual payments

Spoofing official numbers, claiming security problems

Verify through official channels, never transfer money based on calls

Grandparent/Emergency Scams

$1,000–$1,800 average per victim

Late night calls, requests for secrecy

Using AI voice cloning, creating panic scenarios

Establish family code words, verify directly with relatives

Sweepstakes/Lottery Scams

$102 million (2024)

Winning contests never entered, upfront fee requests

Impersonating legitimate organizations, demanding advance fees

Ignore unexpected wins, never pay to claim prizes

Phone/Telemarketing Scams

$1,500 median loss per victim

High-pressure sales tactics, artificial urgency

Using robocalls, impersonating legitimate businesses

Use call blocking, verify through official numbers

Homeowner/Reverse Mortgage Scams

$352 million–$1.5 billion annually

Unsolicited property tax reduction offers, pressure to sign quickly

Posing as senior estate planners, pushing unnecessary renovations

Consult HUD-approved counselors, verify contractors

Smishing/Text Scams

$10 billion

Suspicious links, urgent account problems

Copying official branding, creating fake crises

Never click links, forward suspicious texts to 7726

Obituary/Funeral Scams

Not mentioned

Unsolicited calls after a death, claims of owed debt

Scanning obituaries, targeting grieving families

Limit personal details in obituaries, verify debt claims

Phantom Hacker Scams

$542 million (2023)

Multiple parties contacting about same problem, claims of foreign hackers

Three-phase attack system, fake government protection

Never allow remote access, ignore unsolicited pop-ups

Fake Fraud Department Scams

Not mentioned

Unexpected calls about suspicious activity, insistence on secrecy

Tag-team approach with multiple fake specialists

Call organizations directly, use verified numbers

Refund Scams

Not mentioned

Unexpected refund offers, requests for remote access

Manipulating screen displays, claiming accidental overpayment

Never allow remote access, contact companies directly

Digital Asset Investment Scams

$716 million (2023)

Unsolicited crypto opportunities, guaranteed high returns

"Pig butchering" scheme, showing initial small returns

Verify through trusted advisors, report suspicious activities

AI Voice Cloning Scams

Part of $3.40 billion (2023)

Urgent money requests, resistance to video calls

Using AI to clone voices from short audio clips, creating emergency scenarios

Establish a family safe word, always verify directly with relatives

Conclusion

Understanding these 15 scam types can help you protect yourself and your loved ones. Scammers use similar methods across different schemes—they create artificial urgency, impersonate trusted authorities, and manipulate emotions to make victims act without thinking.

Your best defense involves several strategies. Always verify unexpected contacts through official channels. Discuss suspicious communications with trusted family members or friends. Remember that legitimate organizations never demand immediate payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.

Many families find it helpful to establish verification systems, such as unique code words for emergency situations. Enable call-blocking technology and limit personal information shared on social media.

Safety requires ongoing awareness. Scammers constantly develop new techniques, but knowing their common patterns offers strong protection. Review these warning signs periodically and share this information with vulnerable family members.

Family conversations about scam prevention are important. Regular discussions help everyone stay informed about new fraud techniques. Approach these conversations with respect, focusing on practical steps rather than creating anxiety.

If you or a loved one encounters any of these scams, report immediately to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center and the FTC. Early reporting can sometimes help recover funds and prevents others from becoming victims.

Knowing how these frauds work and what steps to take empowers you to use technology and handle unexpected contacts with confidence.

Key takeaways

Seniors are at risk of financial threats, with over $5 billion lost to scams in 2024 alone. Knowing these 15 FBI-identified scams and their warning signs helps protect retirement savings and personal security.

Verify before you trust: Always contact organizations directly using official numbers when receiving unexpected calls about emergencies, account problems, or investment opportunities.

Never pay upfront for prizes or services: Legitimate sweepstakes, government agencies, and tech companies never demand payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.

Establish family safety protocols: Create unique code words for emergency verification and discuss any urgent financial requests with trusted relatives before acting.

Recognize emotional manipulation tactics: Scammers create false urgency, exploit loneliness, and use fear to bypass rational thinking. Take time to verify suspicious communications.

Protect your digital footprint: Limit personal information in social media and obituaries, use call-blocking technology, and never allow remote computer access to strangers.

To stay safe, remember that legitimate organizations will never pressure you into immediate financial decisions. When in doubt, hang up, verify independently, and consult with trusted family members before taking any action.

FAQs

Q1. What are some common scams currently targeting seniors?
Common scams include investment fraud, tech support scams, romance scams, government impersonation scams, and grandparent or emergency scams. Scammers create false urgency, exploit trust, and manipulate emotions to make people act without thinking.

Q2. How can seniors protect themselves from online scams?
Seniors can protect themselves by verifying unexpected contacts through official channels, discussing suspicious communications with trusted family members, never paying via gift cards or cryptocurrency, and establishing family verification systems like code words for emergencies. Stay informed about new scam techniques.

Q3. What are some red flags that may indicate a scam?
Red flags include unsolicited calls or messages about prizes or account issues, pressure to act quickly, requests for unusual payment methods, resistance to verification questions, and claims of guaranteed high returns. Be wary of anyone asking for remote access to your computer or personal financial information.

Q4. What should I do if I suspect an elderly person is being scammed?
Encourage them to stop all communication with the suspected scammer immediately. Help them contact their bank to secure their accounts. Report the incident to local law enforcement and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. Offer support in reviewing their financial statements for unauthorized transactions.

Q5. How are scammers using new technology to target seniors?
Scammers use AI voice cloning to impersonate loved ones in emergency scams. They exploit social media to gather personal information. In text message scams, they use phishing techniques and create convincing fake websites for investment fraud. Staying informed about these tactics helps protect you.

Verify through trusted advisors, report suspicious activities

AI Voice Cloning Scams

Part of $3.40 billion (2023)

Urgent money requests, resistance to video calls

Using AI to clone voices from short audio clips, creating emergency scenarios

A family safe word system helps keep your loved ones, especially seniors, safe. It's a communication tool for emergencies or verifying identities over the phone. With a safe word, families can quickly confirm if a call or message is real, protecting against scams or impersonations. This system offers peace of mind and a way to verify things immediately.

Conclusion

Understanding these 15 scam types can help you protect yourself and your loved ones from financial exploitation. Scammers use similar methods across different schemes. They often create artificial urgency, impersonate trusted authorities, or manipulate emotions to make victims act without thinking.

Your best defense involves several strategies. Always verify unexpected contacts through official channels before taking any action. Discuss suspicious communications with trusted family members or friends. Remember that legitimate organizations never demand immediate payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.

Many families find it helpful to establish verification systems, such as unique code words for emergency situations. You can also enable call-blocking technology and limit personal information shared on social media platforms.

Safety requires ongoing awareness, not just one-time precautions. Scammers constantly develop new techniques, but knowing their common patterns offers strong protection. Review these warning signs periodically and share this information with family members who may be vulnerable.

Family conversations about scam prevention are important for protection. Regular discussions help everyone stay informed about new fraud techniques. Approach these conversations with respect, focusing on practical steps and avoiding anxiety.

Should you or a loved one encounter any of these scams, report them immediately to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and the FTC. Early reporting can sometimes help recover funds and prevents others from becoming victims.

Understanding these schemes helps you protect your financial security. When you know how these frauds work and what steps to take, you can use technology and handle unexpected contacts with confidence.

Key Takeaways

Seniors are at risk of financial threats, with over $5 billion lost to scams in 2024 alone. Knowing these 15 FBI-identified scams and their warning signs helps protect retirement savings and personal security.

• Verify before you trust: Always contact organizations directly using official numbers when receiving unexpected calls about emergencies, account problems, or investment opportunities.

• Never pay upfront for prizes or services: Legitimate sweepstakes, government agencies, and tech companies never demand payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.

• Establish family safety protocols: Create unique code words for emergency verification and discuss any urgent financial requests with trusted relatives before acting.

• Recognize emotional manipulation tactics: Scammers create false urgency, exploit loneliness, and use fear to bypass rational thinking. Take time to verify suspicious communications.

• Protect your digital footprint: Limit personal information in social media and obituaries, use call-blocking technology, and never allow remote computer access to strangers.

To stay safe, remember that legitimate organizations will never pressure you into immediate financial decisions. When in doubt, hang up, verify independently, and consult with trusted family members before taking any action.

FAQs

Q1. What are some common scams currently targeting seniors?
Common scams that target seniors include investment fraud, tech support scams, romance scams, government impersonation scams, and grandparent/emergency scams. Scammers often create false urgency, exploit trust, and manipulate emotions to make people act without thinking.

Q2. How can seniors protect themselves from online scams? Seniors can protect themselves by verifying unexpected contacts through official channels, discussing suspicious communications with trusted family members, never paying via gift cards or cryptocurrency, and establishing family verification systems like code words for emergencies. Seniors should also stay informed about new scam techniques.

Q3. What are some red flags that may indicate a scam? Red flags include unsolicited calls or messages about prizes or account issues, pressure to act quickly, requests for unusual payment methods, resistance to verification questions, and claims of guaranteed high returns on investments. Be wary of anyone asking for remote access to your computer or personal financial information.

Q4. What should I do if I suspect an elderly person is being scammed? If you suspect an elderly person is being scammed, encourage them to stop all communication with the suspected scammer immediately. Help them contact their bank to secure their accounts, and report the incident to local law enforcement and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Offer support in reviewing their financial statements for any unauthorized transactions.

Q5. How are scammers using new technology to target seniors? Scammers use AI voice cloning to impersonate loved ones in emergency scams. They also exploit social media to gather personal information. In text message scams, they use clever phishing techniques, and they create convincing fake websites for investment fraud. Staying informed about these tactics helps protect you.