Protecting Our Seniors: The 5 Most Common Scams Targeting Older Adults
It’s crucial for seniors and their families in Santa Barbara and Montecito, CA, to be aware of scams that disproportionately target older adults. Scammers exploit seniors' trust and vulnerability, causing significant financial and emotional distress. This blog post, from Deborah Samuel, Senior Specialist Realtor, and Kelsey Samuel, owner of SBSOS (Santa Barbara Senior Organization Support), will discuss five common scams targeting seniors and offer tips for recognizing and avoiding them.
1. Phishing Scams: Suspicious Emails and Texts
Phishing scams involve fraudulent communications that appear to be from legitimate organizations. Scammers send emails or texts claiming to be from banks, government agencies, or well-known companies, requesting personal information.
Tips for Avoiding Phishing Scams:
- Be skeptical of unsolicited messages.
- Verify the source before clicking links or providing information.
- If in doubt, hang up or delete the message. You can block the number. We can help teach you how to block numbers if needed.
- Never give out personal information over the phone or online unless you have independently verified the source.
2. Romance Scams: Exploiting Trust and Vulnerability
Romance scams involve scammers creating fake profiles on dating sites and social media. They build an emotional connection with the victim over time and then ask for money, often claiming to be in a difficult situation. Unfortunately, Deborah and Kelsey have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of these scams on vulnerable seniors in Santa Barbara and Montecito. Last year, one client lost $150,000, another over $100,000. These are real stories of heartbreak and loss caused by sophisticated criminals.
Tips for Avoiding Romance Scams:
- Be cautious when forming online relationships.
- Avoid sending money or sharing personal information with someone you haven't met "in person."
- Verify their identity through multiple sources.
- If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Tech Support Scams: Preying on Technological Anxiety
In tech support scams, fraudsters impersonate legitimate tech support representatives. They may call, claiming a virus is on your computer, and offer to help, often requesting remote access or payment for unnecessary services.
Tips for Avoiding Tech Support Scams:
- If you suspect a scam, contact the company directly through official channels.
- Legitimate companies will not ask for personal information over the phone.
- Never give remote access to your computer unless you initiate the contact.
4. Lottery or Prize Scams: The Allure of Easy Money
Seniors often receive notifications that they have won a lottery or sweepstakes they never entered. They are usually asked to pay fees or provide personal information to claim the prize.
Tips for Avoiding Lottery and Prize Scams:
- Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Legitimate lotteries never require payment to claim winnings.
5. Medicare and Health Insurance Scams: Exploiting Healthcare Concerns
Scammers impersonate Medicare representatives to sell fake products or services. They may request personal information or payments for unnecessary services not covered by Medicare.
Tips for Avoiding Medicare and Health Insurance Scams:
- Be skeptical of unsolicited calls or emails about health services.
- Verify the caller's identity independently.
- Report suspicious activity to Medicare or local authorities.
Best Practices: From Deborah and Kelsey for Protecting Our Seniors
Awareness is the first step in protecting our seniors. By understanding common scams and taking proactive measures, we can help loved ones stay safe. Encourage open discussions and remind seniors to trust their instincts—if something feels off, it’s best to walk away.
Deborah Samuel, Realtor, and Kelsey Samuel of SBSOS work to protect our clients. Deborah’s expertise in the Santa Barbara and Montecito real estate market ensures a smooth home sale, while Kelsey's team provides comprehensive downsizing services, including financial planning and management where applicable and within the scope of their license. They offer support, peace of mind, and a seamless transition into the next chapter of life.
Contact Deborah Samuel, Realtor, and Kelsey Samuel, owner of SBSOS today!
Protect your senior loved ones from scams! Deborah Samuel and SBSOS share top tips and resources. Contact us for peace of mind, and share this blog with your loved ones.
