Stay Alert: Common Scams on National Senior Fraud Awareness Day

As National Senior Fraud Awareness Day on May 15 approaches, it's an ideal time to reflect on the ever-evolving scams targeting older adults. Whether you have a cherished elderly family member or you're simply passionate about safeguarding seniors from financial harm, awareness is your best shield against these deceptive practices.

Tech Support Scams

Fraudsters often pose as tech company representatives claiming there's a problem with your device. They might ask for remote access or payments to fix non-existent issues. Always verify with your tech company's official support before taking any steps.

Government Impersonation Scams

Scammers may call pretending to be government officials, threatening legal action to collect personal data. Remember, government agencies typically communicate through official mail and won't ask for sensitive information over the phone.

Grandparent Scams

In this scam, imposters pose as grandchildren in distress, urgently requesting money. Always verify the situation by directly contacting your relative or asking questions only they would know the answers to.

Romance Scams

Romance scammers build trust through online relationships only to request money later. Be cautious of anyone who forms a quick online romance and starts asking for financial help. Verify their identity through video calls or meetings before sharing any money.

Medicare Scams

Scammers may disguise themselves as Medicare representatives offering bogus services to harvest personal information. Real Medicare representatives won't contact you out of the blue asking for personal details. Always contact Medicare directly to inquire about services or requests.

Sweepstakes Scams

Receiving a notice that you've won a prize but need to pay upfront fees is a red flag. Legitimate sweepstakes don’t ask for payment to claim winnings. If you didn’t enter, it’s likely a scam.

Share this information widely with your loved ones, as awareness is paramount in preventing fraud. For more resources or to report any suspicious activity, consider visiting [StopFraud.gov](https://www.stopfraud.gov) or calling a local fraud hotline.