According to a 2025 report from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), complaints from victims over 60 exceeded 201,000, and reported losses were more than $7.7 billion. Although financial scams can occur year-round, they usually increase around the holiday season due to increased online shopping and donations. Older adults, especially those who are isolated or lonely, are particularly vulnerable.
Common Scams:
- Romance Scams:
- Signs: Reluctance to video chat, excessive declarations of love, sharing little personal info, and requests for money or gift cards.
- Publisher's Clearing House:
- Signs: Asking for upfront payments, claims to be from "PCH Prize Patrol," requests for sensitive information such as, your social security number.
- Utility Company Scams:
- Signs: Threats of service shutoff, demands for unusual payments, or entry to your home.
- Charity Scams:
- Signs: Pretend to represent real or fake charities, often mimicking names.
- Home Repair Scams:
- Signs: Urgent repair claims, pressure to make quick payments. Always verify the person's contractor credentials.
- Debt Relief Scams:
- Signs: Request upfront fees, often targeting those with significant debt, including IRS scams, credit repair, and auto loan modifications.
- Other Scams:
- Signs: UPS delivery fakes, grandparent scams, tech support scams, blackmail threats, and investment fraud.
Tips to Avoid Scams:
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true
- Don't hesitate to say "no" or hang up
- Never send money via gift cards or wire transfers to unknown individuals
- Avoid clicking suspicious links or attachments
- Verify requests for personal info through trusted sources
- Keep personal information secure
- Monitor financial accounts closely, especially during holidays
- Maintain a strong support network to reduce isolation
If you need immediate assistance from law enforcement, call 9-1-1. You can also contact the Victim Assistance program staff at 517-278-2538.
