Crimes against seniors are on the rise, with fraud, physical exploitation, and scams targeting older adults becoming alarmingly frequent. As reported by the FBI and other organizations, elder fraud alone accounted for more than $3.4 billion in losses in 2023, a trend expected to worsen in 2024. To address these concerns, it’s vital to learn from real-world examples of crimes against seniors and take actionable steps to prevent them.
Below, we highlight five cases of elder crime and offer lessons for how seniors can safeguard themselves against these threats.
1. Tech Support Scams: Preying on Trust
Case: In 2024, tech support scams remained one of the most reported crimes against seniors, affecting over 18,000 older adults. These scams typically involve a fake “tech support” representative calling or sending a message to an elderly person, claiming that their computer is compromised. They often convince the senior to grant remote access to their device, leading to stolen personal data, money transfers, or even malware installation.
Prevention Tips:
Seniors should be wary of anyone claiming to be from tech support, particularly if they ask for money or remote access. It’s best to consult a trusted family member or professional before taking any action.
- Do not engage with unsolicited tech support calls. Legitimate companies like Microsoft or Apple will never initiate contact to fix an issue.
- Use antivirus software to detect suspicious activity. Seniors can ask family or friends for help in setting up these protections.
- Enable two-factor authentication for sensitive accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
2. Investment Scams: Luring with False Promises
Case: In early 2024, an investment scam targeting seniors in California resulted in millions of dollars in losses. The scam promised guaranteed high returns in a fraudulent real estate investment scheme. Scammers used high-pressure tactics to convince seniors to invest their life savings, only for the funds to disappear once the money was transferred.
Prevention Tips:
Seniors must always investigate investment opportunities carefully. It’s critical to avoid making financial decisions under pressure, and to consult financial advisors or family members for guidance.
- Be skeptical of “too good to be true” returns. No legitimate investment guarantees high returns with zero risk.
- Consult a trusted financial advisor before making any large financial decisions. It’s essential to rely on professionals with verified credentials.
- Verify licenses of investment brokers or firms through government agencies such as the SEC or FINRA.
3. Romance Scams: Emotional Manipulation for Financial Gain
Case: Romance scams have been one of the most emotionally devastating crimes against seniors, increasing by 13% in 2024. These scams often begin on social media or dating websites where scammers pose as romantic interests. Once trust is established, the scammer requests money for various fabricated emergencies or claims they are unable to meet due to financial hardship.
Prevention Tips:
- Be cautious of online relationships where requests for money are made. Scammers often prey on loneliness and trust.
- Limit sharing personal information online, particularly on social media or dating platforms.
- Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person. A legitimate relationship will not rely on financial support early on.
Learning Lesson: Seniors must protect their emotional and financial well-being by being cautious with online relationships. Verifying identities and meeting in person before making any financial commitments is crucial.
4. Grandparent Scams: Fear-Based Tactics
Case: In 2024, a 78-year-old man in Massachusetts lost $10,000 after falling for a “grandparent scam.” The scammer pretended to be his grandson in distress, asking for immediate financial assistance to resolve a legal problem. These scams often exploit a senior’s fear for their family’s safety, creating a sense of urgency that leads to hasty decision-making.
Prevention Tips:
- Verify the identity of the caller. Ask specific questions only a family member would know or call the supposed family member directly.
- Hang up and confirm with other family members before taking action. Scammers often request secrecy, which should raise a red flag.
- Report such scams to law enforcement and local agencies, as awareness can help prevent others from becoming victims.
Learning Lesson: Seniors should be cautious when receiving emergency financial requests, especially those involving family members. Always verify the situation through other trusted contacts.
5. Home Repair Scams: Exploiting Vulnerability
Case: A series of home repair scams in Florida targeted seniors after severe weather events in 2024. Scammers posed as contractors offering quick repairs for storm damage, demanding upfront payments. Once paid, they either performed substandard work or disappeared without completing the job.
Prevention Tips:
Seniors should take their time when selecting contractors and avoid high-pressure sales tactics. It’s essential to verify credentials and avoid cash payments without proper contracts.
- Never pay upfront for home repairs. Reputable contractors typically bill after work is completed or require partial payment with a contract in place.
- Verify licenses and references. Ensure contractors are licensed through local authorities, and check reviews or ask for referrals.
- Get multiple quotes from different companies before committing to any work.
Understanding Why Seniors Are Targeted
Crimes against seniors are prevalent because scammers perceive older adults as vulnerable, particularly in terms of technology, financial knowledge, and social isolation. In many cases, seniors may not report fraud due to shame, confusion, or fear of losing their independence.
In 2024, tech support scams alone impacted over 18,000 seniors, leading to significant financial losses. Additionally, investment and romance scams contributed to billions of dollars in damages. According to the FBI, seniors are more likely to be targeted by scammers because they tend to have savings, good credit, and are perceived as trusting.
Additional Tips to Prevent Crimes Against Seniors
- Stay Educated: Seniors and their families should stay informed about the latest scams. Knowledge is the first defense against fraud.
- Monitor Financial Accounts: Regularly check bank statements, credit card accounts, and credit reports for unusual activity. Set up alerts to catch unauthorized transactions early.
- Use Strong Passwords: Seniors should use strong, unique passwords for their online accounts and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Establish Trusted Contacts: Create a system where seniors consult with a trusted family member or legal advisor before making large financial decisions.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Encourage seniors to report any suspicious phone calls, emails, or in-person solicitations to the FBI, Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or local authorities.
Empowering Seniors: Final Thoughts on Preventing Crimes
As seen in the five cases described, crimes against seniors remain a serious issue in 2024. While scammers and criminals continue to target older adults, seniors are not defenseless. By taking proactive steps, such as staying informed, building protective habits, and seeking the support of loved ones, seniors can reduce their risk of falling victim to these crimes.
Actionable Steps to Prevent Crimes Against Seniors:
- Verify Information: Whether it’s a tech support call, a romance scam, or a supposed family emergency, seniors should always take the time to verify the legitimacy of the contact. Criminals rely on urgency to pressure seniors into making hasty decisions. By stepping back and verifying the information through trusted channels, many scams can be prevented.
- Establish Trusted Contacts: Every senior should have a designated family member or friend to consult about financial decisions, suspicious calls, or unexpected requests. Trusted contacts can provide a second opinion and help identify potential fraud.
- Stay Educated: Scams evolve quickly, and it’s important for seniors and their caregivers to stay informed about the latest schemes. Regularly reading up on current fraud trends and consulting reliable sources such as the FBI and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will help seniors stay one step ahead of scammers.
- Utilize Technology Safely: While technology can open doors for scammers, it can also be a powerful tool for protection. Seniors should use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication on their devices and accounts, and install trusted security software. With support from family members or professionals, seniors can leverage technology to enhance their security online.
- Report Fraud: Many seniors are hesitant to report scams due to feelings of embarrassment or fear of appearing vulnerable. However, reporting fraud is critical—not only to hold criminals accountable but also to prevent future victims. Government agencies like the FBI, FTC, and local law enforcement are ready to support seniors and provide resources for recovery.
Building a Safer Future for Seniors
As the senior population continues to grow, crimes against seniors will remain a serious concern. By learning from these real-world examples, families, caregivers, and seniors can strengthen their defenses and promote safer environments for older adults. The importance of creating awareness, fostering open communication, and encouraging proactive measures cannot be understated.
While seniors may be targeted more often due to their perceived vulnerability, taking even small steps can make a big difference in reducing risk. Through education, vigilance, and support from loved ones, seniors can maintain their independence and enjoy their golden years without fear of exploitation.
If you or a loved one suspect you are the victim of a scam, contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or your local law enforcement to report the incident.
By addressing crimes against seniors head-on, we can create a safer, more secure world for our aging population. Learn more about staying safe with Senior Safety Today!
