Scammers target older adults relentlessly, often because they have savings and may be more trusting. Protecting your parents means combining practical safeguards with open, judgment-free conversations.
Know the Common Scams
- Grandparent scams: a caller posing as a relative in trouble.
- Government impostors: fake IRS or Social Security demands.
- Tech support fraud: pop-ups claiming the computer is infected.
- Romance and lottery scams that build trust, then ask for money.
Put Safeguards in Place
Set up call screening, register on the Do Not Call list, and consider account alerts that flag large transfers. Agree on a rule: never send money or gift cards based on an unexpected call.
Talk About It Openly
Make it safe to ask "Does this seem like a scam?" without embarrassment. Victims often stay silent out of shame, so reassure them that anyone can be targeted.
Combine this with broader safety tips for seniors and identity theft protection.
Stay Informed. Stay Safe.
Crime Stop gives you real-time crime reports, interactive maps, and safety alerts for over 100 US cities. Join your community today.
Explore the Crime Map
