Scams targeting older adults are becoming more frequent—and more sophisticated. With cyberattacks dominating headlines, cybercriminals are increasingly viewing seniors as ideal targets. According to findings published recently by Security Journal, cybercriminals intentionally target older adults as potential victims, driven by the belief that they are wealthy and easy to deceive.

Every year, thousands of seniors across the US fall victim to financial fraud. Data released in the Federal Trade Commission's 2024 Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book notes that older adults reported losing $2.3 billion to fraud in 2024. The report also found that people in their 60s, 70s and 80s accounted for 74% of all fraud loss reports made to the agency last year.

In addition, a report released by the FBI in July found online scams and other internet crimes are skyrocketing, with a record $16.6 billion in losses in 2024.

The good news is that awareness is the first—and most powerful—step toward prevention. Understanding the most common scams, knowing what to watch for, and taking simple precautions can protect you and your loved ones. And for many older adults, moving into a senior living community can add an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Six Common Scams That Target Seniors

Here are some of the most frequent scams that impact older adults:

Medicare or Health Insurance Scams

Scammers may pose as Medicare representatives to get personal information or offer fake services for a fee. They may ask for your Medicare number or bank information to “verify your identity” which they then use to commit fraud.

IRS- or Government-Impersonation Scams

You may receive a threatening call claiming you owe taxes and must pay immediately or face arrest. The IRS never contacts people by phone with threats like this. These are always scams.

Tech Support Scams

A pop-up may appear on your computer claiming you have a virus. The scammer asks for remote access and then charges you to “fix” the issue or installs malware to steal your personal information.

Grandparent Scams

Someone calls pretending to be your grandchild in trouble. They ask for emergency money and beg you not to tell their parents. This emotional manipulation can be very effective.

Romance Scams

Online scammers pose as potential romantic partners on dating sites or social media, slowly building trust before asking for money or financial help

Lottery or Sweepstakes Scams

You’re told you’ve won a prize—but must pay taxes or processing fees up front to claim it. If you didn’t enter a contest, you didn’t win anything.

Tips to Protect Yourself or a Senior Loved One From Scams

Here are a few ways you or an older adult in your life can avoid falling victim to a financial scam:

• Never give out personal information (Social Security number, bank account, Medicare number) to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
• Don’t rush into anything. Scammers often pressure you to act quickly or require an immediate decision to qualify for a “special deal.” Take your time to check references, read online reviews, and verify facts.
• Hang up on suspicious calls. If someone claims to be from the IRS, police, or utility company and demands immediate payment, it’s likely a scam. Hang up the phone immediately.
• Don’t click unknown links. In emails or texts, avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from senders you don’t know.
• Check with someone you trust. If something feels off, talk to a family member, friend, or staff member before responding.

One final tip is to report scams or potential scams, even if you are embarrassed. Call your local law enforcement, who will either help you or direct you to someone who can.

How Senior Living Communities Help Prevent Scams

Living in a senior community offers many benefits, including enhanced protection against scams and fraud. Here’s how:

Trained Team Members On-Site

Staff in senior living communities are often trained to recognize suspicious calls, letters, and behaviors. They may be able to ask questions and intervene before a scam results in a financial loss.

Regular Education and Workshops

Many communities host educational sessions on scam prevention, internet safety, and personal security. For example, Quincy Village, Waynesboro, PA and St. Andrew's Village, Indiana, PA both hosted Cyber Security Education programs by Greg Day, PSL's Vice President of Technology. Staying informed helps residents remain alert and cautious.

Reduced Isolation for Older Adults

Scammers prey on individuals who may be isolated and lonely. In a senior living community, regular social interaction and peer support reduce vulnerability and make residents less likely to fall for a fake friend or romance scam.

Controlled Access

Living in a community with secured entry limits access for door-to-door scammers or imposters. Visitors are often required to sign in, so strangers can’t easily approach residents without a team member knowing.

An Invitation to Visit a PSL Location Near You

With communities in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Ohio, PSL offers a variety of choices designed to meet every need and budget. We invite you to call a PSL location near you to schedule a time for a personal tour at your convenience!