Tag / scam alert

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Common Social Security Scams During COLA Season

We recently talked about the “Claim Your COLA” scam — where fraudsters try to trick retirees into “activating” their Cost-of-Living Adjustment. Unfortunately, that’s only one of several scams that surface this time of year, when attention is high on Social Security payments and policy updates.

Scammers know that COLA season brings confusion and curiosity. They take advantage of that by pretending to be government representatives, sending emails, texts, or letters designed to look official. Here are a few of the most common tactics:

1. “Confirm Your Payment Schedule”
Fraudsters may claim they need to “verify” your date of birth, bank account, or Social Security number to confirm when your COLA increase will arrive. The SSA never asks for personal details this way.

2. “You’re Owed an Additional Adjustment”
Some messages suggest you qualify for extra funds — but only after confirming private information. This is a classic bait-and-trap designed to steal your identity or bank data.

3. “Policy Changes Due to a Government Shutdown”
Scammers sometimes exploit headlines, claiming a shutdown or funding delay has changed how benefits are issued. These messages are false and often lead to phishing sites.

4. “Fee-for-Service Help”
Be wary of anyone offering to “expedite” your COLA or handle Social Security paperwork for a fee. There are no shortcuts — and official help from the SSA is always free.

If you ever receive a suspicious message, don’t respond or click any links. Contact the Social Security Administration directly at 1-800-772-1213 or visit them online for accurate information.

A little skepticism goes a long way — especially during COLA season, when scammers are most active.

by joshuastanley720

AI Voice Scams Are on the Rise—Here’s How to Stop Them

AI voice scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and seniors are often the primary targets.

Using advanced artificial intelligence tools, scammers can now replicate a loved one’s voice with just a short audio clip.

These cloned voices can be used in phone calls to trick a person into believing that a grandchild, child, or other family member is in danger and urgently needs money. The emotional manipulation is powerful—and sadly, often effective.

How AI Voice Scams Work and How to Stay Safe

Many of these scams begin with a sense of panic: “Grandma, I’ve been in an accident,” or “I’m in jail, and I need bail money.” The voice sounds just like a family member, and the caller insists on secrecy or immediate action. Anyone who may not be familiar with AI technology can be caught off guard and respond before verifying the situation.

One simple yet highly effective way to protect your loved ones is to establish a family code word or phrase. This should be something easy to remember but hard for outsiders to guess. Pick something not found in social media posts or public records. It could be a childhood nickname, a favorite vacation spot, or a silly phrase you’ve never shared with anyone else. If someone calls claiming to be a relative in trouble, ask for the code word. If they don’t know it, hang up and contact the real person directly.

Other voice scams ask simple questions, often from scammers posing as Social Security, Medicare, or tax authorities. “Can you hear me?” When you respond with “yes,” they can use this voice clip to approve security prompts on your behalf, using the recording to give consent to purchases, account access, and more. The solution? Don’t say “yes,” and if you receive an unsolicited call, ask who it is, then hang up and contact that organization directly to check if the communication is legitimate.

Remember, you can use your voice to spread the word about scams like these. Inform your family and friends, and make plans to prepare for said schemes ahead of time. Do you know anyone who has been targeted? Share your thoughts and experiences.

by joshuastanley720

3 Simple Security Habits for Seniors

Staying secure in an increasingly digital world does not always require complicated technology or extensive knowledge. Often, a few simple habits can make a meaningful difference. By slowing down, staying informed, and communicating openly, seniors can become more confident when handling suspicious calls, messages, emails, and other communications.

Try These Simple Security Habits for Seniors (or Anyone)

1. Pause before sharing any information.
One of the best security habits is also one of the simplest: stop and think before responding. Never assume a call, email, text, or other communication is legitimate simply because it looks or sounds convincing. Scammers can be remarkably cunning and may use urgency, fear, or familiarity to encourage quick decisions. Taking a moment to pause gives your mind an opportunity to respond logically instead of reacting emotionally. When something feels unusual, verify it independently before providing information or taking action.

2. Set a regular security check-in.
Once every month or two, set aside time to review your accounts and personal information for anything unusual. Security and identity-monitoring services from companies such as Aura or Norton can help consumers monitor certain personal data and identify potential concerns. A regular check-in can make it easier to notice suspicious activity before it becomes a larger problem.

3. Talk openly with others.
Security problems become easier to recognize when people feel comfortable discussing them. Have honest, judgment-free conversations with friends, family members, or others who have experienced scams or attempted scams. Sharing experiences can help others recognize warning signs and makes these issues more visible.

No security habit can eliminate every risk, but consistency can make it much harder for scammers to catch you off guard. Follow our page for more practical tips to help seniors stay informed, confident, and secure.

by joshuastanley720

Protecting Against Social Security Scams Targeting Dementia Patients: A Guide for Caretakers and Loved Ones

As caretakers or loved ones of individuals with dementia, it’s vital to remain vigilant against the ever-evolving tactics of Social Security scams targeting dementia patients.

Sadly, those with dementia can be more susceptible to exploitation, not because of gullibility, but due to the cognitive challenges they face. Scammers are aware of these vulnerabilities and prey on them.

Let’s explore some common tactics scammers use, as well as how dementia patients and their caretakers can remain safe.

Facts About Social Security Scams Targeting Dementia Patients

Scammers often employ various manipulative tactics to deceive vulnerable individuals. They may impersonate Social Security Administration officials, claiming issues with benefits or pending legal action. Through phone calls, emails, or even doorstep visits, they instill fear, confusion, and urgency, coercing victims into revealing personal information or sending money.

For dementia patients, distinguishing between legitimate and fraudulent communication becomes increasingly difficult. As caretakers, it’s crucial to educate and implement protective measures. Firstly, establish clear communication channels with banks and government agencies, ensuring that any unusual activity triggers immediate alerts.

Encourage skepticism towards unsolicited communications, emphasizing that legitimate organizations won’t demand sensitive information or payments hastily. Implement call-screening techniques, such as blocking unfamiliar numbers or utilizing call-forwarding services to verify a patient’s communications are safe.

Regularly review financial statements for irregularities and consider setting up automatic bill payments to minimize the risk of missed deadlines due to confusion or forgetfulness.

Above all, foster an environment of trust and open communication. Remind dementia patients that it’s okay to ask for help and reassure them that their well-being is the top priority.

By staying informed, proactive, and supportive, caretakers can help safeguard their loved ones against the heart-wrenching consequences of Social Security scams targeting dementia patients. Together, let’s ensure that vulnerable individuals are protected and empowered in their life’s journey.

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The Connection Between Text Alerts and Social Security Scams

How are text alerts and Social Security scams connected?

Sometimes these common notifications can be weaponized by thieves. But in other cases, they can be used to protect you.

Let’s explore how these communications can be both a risk and a valuable resource when it comes to safeguarding your information.

How Text Alerts and Social Security Scams Are Connected

Text alerts have become a common tool for communication, especially in the realm of financial transactions and Social Security. However, their increasing prevalence has also opened the door for scammers to exploit this technology.

Social Security scams often involve fraudulent text alerts designed to deceive recipients into believing they are legitimate. Scammers can craft convincing messages that appear to come from official sources, tricking individuals into providing sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords. These scams can lead to identity theft and significant financial losses.

Despite these risks, text alerts remain an essential tool for protecting your financial security when used correctly. Banks, credit card companies, and other financial institutions use text alerts to notify you of suspicious activity on your accounts. For example, you might receive an alert if a large withdrawal is made, a new device is used to access your account, or an unusual purchase is detected. These alerts allow you to act quickly to verify the activity or take action to prevent fraud.

To protect yourself from Social Security scams and other fraudulent texts, it’s important to be vigilant and cautious. Always verify the source of any text alert by contacting the organization directly through official channels. Never provide personal information in response to unsolicited texts. Additionally, enable security features offered by your financial institutions, such as multi-factor authentication and custom alert settings, to enhance your protection.

In conclusion, while scammers can misuse text alerts to appear legitimate, these alerts also serve as a powerful defense mechanism against fraud when used wisely. By staying informed and cautious, you can harness the benefits of text alerts to safeguard your financial and personal information.

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by joshuastanley720

How Scammers Use Your Personal Details to Target You – and How to Stay Safe

In today’s digital world, personal details shared online can be a goldmine for scammers. Many people, especially seniors, unknowingly provide information that fraudsters can use to craft convincing scam attempts.

Where Scammers Get Your Information
Scammers don’t need hacking skills to find your details—most of it is readily available online. Public social media profiles can reveal your full name, birthdate, hometown, family members, and even your interests. Online directories and data broker sites often list addresses, phone numbers, and other personal details. Even a simple “fun” quiz on social media can provide scammers with the answers to common security questions.

How They Use It Against You
With just a few details, scammers can:

  • Impersonate a loved one in distress and ask for urgent financial help.
  • Pose as a trusted organization (like Social Security or Medicare) and request sensitive information.
  • Customize phishing emails or calls to sound more convincing.
  • Guess passwords using common information like birthdays or pet names.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Limit what you share on social media—set profiles to private and avoid posting personal details.
  • Be cautious with online quizzes and forms—they may be designed to collect information.
  • Regularly check privacy settings on social media and other accounts.
  • Verify requests for information—never provide personal details over the phone or email without confirming the source.

Staying vigilant is key to avoiding scams. Protecting your personal information today can prevent costly mistakes tomorrow. Stay informed and share this knowledge to help others stay safe!

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Watch Out for Summer Travel Scams – Here’s How to Stay Safe

Summer is prime time for fun, road trips, and vacations. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime opportunity for summer travel scams.

With people booking trips, hitting the road, and spending more money online, scammers see an opportunity. Here are a few of the most common summer travel scams to watch for, along with ways to stay one step ahead.

One big red flag? Unbelievable hotel or event deals that pop up in texts, emails, or social media ads. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. These scams often ask for upfront payment or your personal info to “hold” the booking. Instead, always book directly through trusted websites or the hotel’s official site.

Another one making the rounds is the fake toll or traffic violation scam. You might get a message saying you owe money for missing a toll or speeding. Don’t click the link or call the number. These scammers are trying to steal your money, driver’s license number, and more. If you’re unsure if the claim is legitimate, contact the local toll collecting organization.

Everyone has encountered the persistent telemarketers who promote car warranties and travel insurance. But some aren’t just trying to sell you something. Instead, they want to steal your info and defraud you. Hang up. Don’t press any buttons or answer any voice prompts. If you want to shop for a warranty or insurance, contact the sellers directly yourself.

The best rule? Never share your personal or payment info with someone you don’t know or trust. If anything feels off, end the call, close the email, or exit the text. Then go straight to the source, and use a number or website you find yourself.

Bonus tip: set up alerts on your bank and credit cards so you catch unauthorized charges quickly. And keep your devices updated and secured with strong passwords.

Scammers don’t take vacations, but you can still enjoy yours by staying alert and protecting your info.

by joshuastanley720

Pass It On: Celebrate Older Americans Month by Helping to Stop Scams

During this Older Americans Month, seniors across the nation celebrate not just their wisdom and experiences, but also valuable fraud education through the Pass It On campaign by the FTC.

Embracing the theme of social connections, the campaign has fostered thousands of interactions, igniting dialogues to safeguard against scams.

We here at The Seniors Center support all efforts to protect seniors and older adults from fraud. Here’s how this program and the movement around it are promoting safety through education and community.

Pass It On: A Movement That Spreads Information and Hope

Initially conceived based on direct feedback from older adults, Pass It On embodies simplicity, clarity, and relevance. It delivers plain language materials that honor readers and their life journeys.

What began with coverage of critical topics has expanded greatly. The more people come forward to discuss their experiences with scams, the easier it is for others to speak up as well. This makes the movement one of camaraderie and mutual support.

Seniors, with their diverse backgrounds and learning preferences, are vulnerable to scams regardless. Hence, a group of subject-matter experts has outlined principles for organizations engaging older adults. The FTC offers insights into scams related to investments, charity, healthcare, tech support, and more.

Over the past decade, a multitude of community partners have tirelessly disseminated Pass It On messages to their circles, spanning from clients to neighbors. From aging services to consumer protection groups, financial institutions to law enforcement, dedicated individuals have conducted presentations, led discussions, and shared insights with loved ones.

The impact spans beyond organizations. Individuals now feel more confident discussing these matters in casual conversation, creating a beacon that shines light on scams and how to stop them.

Keen to become part of this network? Explore opportunities at ftc.gov/PassItOn and join in the collective effort to fortify seniors against scams.

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This Woman Lost $500K to an Elaborate Social Security Scam

Just how easy is it to fall prey to an organized Social Security scam? Imagine you’re relaxing one ordinary day, when you get a phone call. The caller identification indicates it’s the Social Security Administration (SSA).

You pick up the phone, and before you know it, you’re being patched through to multiple parties across different departments. The goal? To clear your name, after your Social Security number was stolen.

This is what happened to an Ohio woman. But there was no stolen number – at least not initially. That’s because the call and the entire operation around it was a Social Security scam. Now she’s sharing her story in hopes it may help others stay safe.

This Social Security Scam Had Everything – Including One Twist

The Ohio woman who was targeted was preyed on using fear mongering. As we’ve discussed, this is arguably the most popular tactic of scammers. They told her that her number was linked to drug trafficking and money laundering activities. She worried she could face jail time.

But the person on the other line, who claimed to be from the SSA, assured her they were there to help. She mentioned the operation was very smooth. The person she was talking to had all the answers, and never hesitated. In addition, her calls were put through to multiple departments. The fact she talked to many different people may have made the scam seem even more real.

While it has all the makings of a classic scam, this one had one unique aspect. The woman was told to take her retirement funds and put them into gold. Then multiple people came to her home to pick the gold up. The first people who came by have not been caught. But the second pair of individuals were pulled over by police. They found the gold and the woman’s receipt in the car. Court records reveal the individuals recently served prison time, and are part of an international organized crime group.

As for the victim, though, her $500,000 in retirement funds is gone. After working for 40 years, she’s now looking for a job. She shared her story in hopes it may help someone else.

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How Your Mindset Makes You More Susceptible to Scams and Fraud

Scams and fraud are billion-dollar industries. Criminals work diligently to create intricate and elaborate schemes, many of which target older Americans.

But the truth is that anyone can be targeted by a scam. Sometimes when we see these stories on the news, or read about them online, we may be tempted to scoff.

“How could someone fall for such an obvious trap?” But the truth is that everyone is susceptible. In most cases, it all comes down to your mindset.

How a Busy Mind Can Make You Vulnerable

Imagine a person who is struggling financially, or barely making ends meet. This individual focuses on being careful with their money, avoiding any additional losses or unnecessary expenses.

But when they get a call that their bank savings or Social Security benefits are at risk, their mindset works against them. While some believe they’re being careful and acting fast by following instructions to “protect” their finances, they’re really falling prey to scammers.

Imagine someone who has seen countless stories online or on the news about people having their private information stolen. At the first hint they might suffer a similar fate, they could be quick to comply with anyone giving them instructions – even if it’s a scammer impersonating a legitimate authority.

Scammers can easily target someone with a busy mind, who is nervous, or who reacts too quickly. What’s the solution? Just as we should be more understanding of those who fall victim to scams, we should take this same slower mindset anytime a similar situation arises.

If someone claiming to be a legitimate authority contacts you and asks for money, physical goods, or private information, pause immediately. End the communication, and reach out to the organization in question directly. This will help you determine if the communication is legitimate or not.

When in doubt, practice the pause. It could save you from being scammed!

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