Understanding Scams and Fraud

Romance scams can target anyone, but older adults and socially isolated individuals are especially susceptible. These scams often start online or with a text message. It’s a long game, because the scammer wants to build trust.

Red Flags

• They don’t want to meet in person. They always have an excuse why they can’t meet in person.
• They mirror your experiences or oddly have a lot in common with you.
• They’re in need of money or they have an investment opportunity.
• They ask you to keep the relationship a secret.

Tips

• Do an online search for the person’s name. It’s a red flag if nothing comes up.
• Do an image search for any profile pictures they send you.
• Talk to friends and family about any new relationships.
• Be wary of people on dating sites who pressure you to move communications off the dating site.

Image from ftc.gov

Employment scams target job seekers. These scams often place fake job descriptions online. Remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Red Flags

• Requests money from you.
• Asks to move communications from job site to a random app.
• Requests personal information like bank account, DOB, or SSN right away.

Tips

• Always do a search for the recruiter and company. If you suspect a scam, add the word “scam” after the company or recruiter that contacted you.
• Reach out to your network and ask for advice.
• Check free resources like the AARP Fraud Watch Network™.

 

Employment Scam “Smishing” Example:

Investment scams can target anyone, but individuals who are less tech-savvy or uninformed about fintech may be more susceptible. These scams often involve cryptocurrency. Financial grooming, sometimes called “pig butchering” is an example.

Red Flags

• Often a long game. The scammer will try to earn your trust.
• It’s pitched as an exclusive opportunity.
• A sense of urgency – “act now or you’ll lose the opportunity”— is a telltale sign of a scam.

Tips

• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Don’t accept friend requests on social media platforms from people you don’t know.
• Ignore random, but seemingly innocent text messages. Just delete them and / or report as junk.

IRS scams can target anyone, but individuals who are socially isolated are at greater risk. Scammers will send texts, emails, and make phone calls saying that back taxes are owed. The IRS will send a first communication through the mail. You can always verify if the letter is legitimate by searching the number that appears on the top, right corner of the letter on IRS.gov. The IRS will only ever email, text, or call you if you’ve given them permission to do so and you’ve already been in touch with them about a case/issue.

Red Flags

• Threats to call law enforcement or immigration officials.
• Making contact over social media.
• Requesting payment in the form of gift cards or other pre-paid cards.
• Asking you to keep the case a secret.

Tips

• Ignore texts and social media requests that claim to be from the IRS.
• If you receive a phone call and you’re unsure if it’s legitimate, ask how to appeal the amount you allegedly owe. This is a process that the real IRS will allow.
• Do not pay any money if they promise you more money in return.

Tech support scams can target anyone, but older adults who aren’t tech-savvy are more susceptible to fall for these scams. Look out for these types of notifications:

• Pop-ups that you can’t close claiming that there is a virus on your computer.
• Random phone calls claiming that there is a virus on your device.
• Text messages claiming that your device is infected.

Red Flags

• Creates a sense of urgency, making you believe you’re at risk of losing files and money.
• Claims that the only way to resolve the problem is if they help you.
• Requests immediate payment.

Tips

• If you can’t close a pop-up because you can’t find the “x,” close your browser. If all else fails, shut down your computer and reboot.
• Get comfortable with your device. Know how to close tabs, apps, and shut it down and restart if necessary.
• Never call a number in a pop-up or unsolicited text or email that claims to be tech support.
• Never click on a link or download unknown software that claims to remove malware or viruses.
• Find competent help. Call a trusted friend or family member or the Senior Planet hotline: 888-713-3495