Digital convenience has transformed how we manage money, health, and communication—but it has also opened new doors for scammers. In 2024 alone, older Americans lost over $3 billion to fraud, with the average loss per victim rising every year.
Whether you're managing finances online, using social media to keep in touch, or just reading email, you need to be alert. This article provides real-world steps for staying safe and recognizing scams before they harm you or your loved ones.
1. Strengthen Your Defenses with Smarter Password Habits
Most security breaches still begin with weak or reused passwords.
Do this instead:
- Use passphrases, not passwords. A phrase like SunsetsAreGolden!47 is stronger and easier to remember than 123456.
- Never reuse the same password across multiple accounts.
- Use a password manager (like Bitwarden, 1Password, or LastPass) to create and store unique, secure passwords.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all financial, email, and health accounts. This adds a second layer of protection even if someone has your password.
2. Understand the Scams That Target Older Adults
Fraudsters often exploit trust and fear. These are the most common types of scams aimed at older Americans:
Impersonation Scams
Someone pretends to be a grandchild, IRS agent, or Medicare rep. They may sound urgent or emotional.
Red flag:Any caller asking for money or gift cards urgently.
What to do: Hang up and call the person/agency directly using a known number.
Phishing Emails and Texts
These messages mimic real companies (like Amazon or your bank) and ask you to “verify” info or click a link.
Red flag: Spelling errors, urgent tone, or suspicious links.
What to do: Don’t click. Log into your account the normal way or call the institution.
Tech Support Scams
A popup or caller says your device has a virus and you need to pay them to fix it.
Red flag: You didn’t request support—they contacted you.
What to do: Never let anyone remotely access your device unless you initiated the call with a trusted provider.
Prize or Lottery Scams
“You’ve won a prize—but first, pay taxes or fees.”
Red flag: You don’t remember entering anything.
What to do: Real sweepstakes never ask you to pay upfront.
3. Be Selective with What You Share (Even With Friends)
Social media is a goldmine for identity thieves. Details like your birthday, pet’s name, or high school can be used to answer security questions or reset your passwords.
Protect yourself by:
- Making your profiles private.
- Limiting what you post—don’t share your full birthdate or location.
- Avoiding quizzes or surveys that ask for personal information.
4. Develop a “Pause and Verify” Habit
If something feels “off,” pause. Don’t click, reply, or pay until you’ve:
- Talked to a trusted friend or family member.
- Called the company or agency using a phone number from their official website.
- Many scams rely on pressure - taking 10 minutes to verify can save thousands.
5. Use These Tools to Stay in Control
- Credit Monitoring: Services like Credit Karma or LifeLock can help spot unauthorized activity fast.
- Free Credit Reports: Check yours at AnnualCreditReport.com (you’re allowed one per bureau per week through 2026).
- Fraud Alerts and Freezes:
- Add a fraud alert with one of the three credit bureaus.
- Consider a credit freeze—this blocks new accounts from being opened in your name (and can be lifted later).
- Call Blocking: Use apps like Hiya, Nomorobo, or carrier-based tools to filter scam calls.
6. Know Who to Contact if Something Happens
If you’re targeted or unsure, here’s where to turn:
- AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline: 877-908-3360 (free and confidential)
- FTC Fraud Reporting: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Your bank or credit union: Call them immediately if you suspect unauthorized activity.
Final Thought: Talk About It
Scammers rely on secrecy and shame. If you - or a loved one - have been targeted, know this: you are not alone. Talk about it. Share what you’ve learned. The more we all speak up, the harder it becomes for fraud to flourish.
Download our Maven Lane Cybersecurity guide to your desktop as a quick reference guide in case you need it. If you have any questions, we are always available as a resource.