U.S. Senate Warns Citizens of the Top 10 Scams Targeting Seniors

Washington, D.C.— For many years seniors have been the target to fraud, and those committing these crimes are becoming additionally cunning in their approach. U.S. Senator Susan Collins and Ranking Member Claire McCaskill recognized the growth in these crimes and announced the top 10 frauds in an anti-fraud resource created for seniors.

“Putting a stop to these disturbing scams targeting our nation’s seniors is among my highest priorities as Chairman of the Senate Aging Committee,” said Senator Collins.  “I cannot emphasize enough how important it is that seniors and their families become aware of their techniques and take action to protect themselves and their loved-ones from these heartless criminals.  This resource guide will help prevent seniors from becoming victims to these ruthless scams.”

The guide was created to inform seniors so they can be a step ahead of the bad guys/gals who are attempting to get their hands on their hard earned and sometimes extremely limited incomes.

Top 10 Scams Targeting Our Nation’s Seniors

1. IRS Impersonation Scams
2. Sweepstakes Scams
3. Robocalls / Unwanted Phone Calls
4. Computer Tech Support Schemes
5. Identity Theft
6. Grandparent Scams
7. Elder Financial Abuse
8. Grant Scams
9. Romance Scams / Confidence Fraud
10. Home Improvement Scams

The anti-fraud resource guide describes each of these methods by including multiple case studies and providing ways to identify these con artists and their schemes. Preying on the elderly by inciting fear of law enforcement or their family members being in harm’s way, these criminals have been lucrative in their schemes causing them to continue. Loneliness is also used when the con artist pretends to be their friend or even love interest in order to request that the victim sends them money.

The Aging Committee maintains a Fraud Hotline (1-855-303-9470) that is staffed by experienced fraud investigators who help link victims with the relevant authorities.    

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