At Fraud Doctor we primarily focus on fraud committed against organizations such as large complex corporate frauds. However, there is a substantial component of fraud that is committed against individuals. Increasingly, consumer fraud is becoming a significant issue within the elderly communities. As a result, we've partnered with the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) to bring you information about consumer fraud specific to senior citizens. We've compiled several resources for both elders and their caregivers about a variety of scams targeted against seniors.   

Identity theft is an issue that can impact everyone, including seniors. Eva Velasquez of the Identity Theft Resource Center shares how the company helps victims of identity theft and the efforts they take to prevent scams from affecting more people.


Scams

Below are just a few of the scams that target elders. Click on the category to expand the section. Then click on the scheme name (if there are multiple schemes) to expand for an explanation. Note that some of these scams are targeted towards veterans; however variations of many of the scams can be applied to non-veterans as well.  

Anti-Aging Product Scams

Benefits Scams

Funeral & Cemetery Scams

Healthcare Scams

Homeowner / Reverse Mortgage Scams

Identity Theft Scams

Lotteries or Sweepstakes Scams

Phishing Scams

Phone Scams

Rental Scams

Romance Scams

Utilities Scams

Resources

Many of the resources below are based in the United States. However, the general concepts are helpful in educational efforts for seniors in other countries as well.

ITRC

Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC)

If you are an individual who wants more information about how to protect yourself, or an elderly loved one, from identity theft, visit our consumer page. Remember that no matter your problem or concern, we are here to help.  Please do not hesitate to call us Toll-Free at 888.400.5530 to speak with an advisor for free assistance. You can also reach us through live chat or via email.

LINKS

https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

American Association of Retired Persons

American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)

The Fraud Watch Network is free of charge for everyone - members, non-members, and people of all ages. You'll learn how to shop and bank safely, create strong passwords, protect yourself from identity theft and scams, use social media with less risk, and more. 

LINKS & Phone Lines

Video: Scammers Are Targeting Veterans

Veteran Chad Wright was just trying to support his family when scammers lured him with a benefits buyout offer. He shares details to warn others.

Video: Scammers Are Targeting Veterans

Veteran Chad Wright was just trying to support his family when scammers lured him with a benefits buyout offer. He shares details to warn others.

Call 877-908-3360 to share your story and receive assistance from our call center
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

Federal Trade Commission

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

The FTC's "Pass it On" campaign encourages older adults to help raise awareness about fraud by talking to their family, friends, and neighbors about avoiding common scams. You can even order free materials from their website. 

LINKS

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0030-pass-it-on#health-care-scams
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

Connect Safely

Connect Safely

They provide tips for:

  • communicating with friends and family
  • avoiding scams
  • meeting new friends and romantic partners
  • sharing your views online
  • online shopping, banking, charity and travel
  • health and well-being
  • dealing with Medicare, Social Security, and the IRS
  • security 101
  • advice for seniors considering enlisting help from family members or caretakers 

LINKS

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0030-pass-it-on#health-care-scams
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

Better Business Bureau

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Focusing on specific issues, the Consumer Education Foundation communicates important information to seniors and their caregivers. Topics include the following: telemarketing, junk mail, sweepstakes offers, investment schemes, fraudulent Medicare offers, charitable giving, email scams, and funeral scams. 

LINKS

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0030-pass-it-on#health-care-scams
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

Dept of Homeland Security

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The DHS has a program entitled "Stop. Think. Connect. Older American Resources" that explains what cybersecurity is and how to protect yourself online. 

LINKS

Stop. Think. Connect. Older American Resources
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0030-pass-it-on#health-care-scams
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

FBI

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The FBI has compiled the top reasons why senior citizens are targeted by con artists and scammers. 

LINKS

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0030-pass-it-on#health-care-scams
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

National Council on Aging

National Council on Aging (NCOA)

The NCOA has compiled the top 10 financial scams targeting seniors. 

LINKS

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0030-pass-it-on#health-care-scams
https://www.idtheftcenter.org/scams-targeting-the-elderly.html

Vintage Identity Theft Videos for Awareness

Citibank, as a major credit card issuer, identified the risk of identity theft to the elderly and vulnerable almost 20-years ago and launched these commercials to try and raise public awareness and discussion. Many of the video by today's standards might seem politically incorrect or even offensive. The videos were targeted for television and therefore the home to try and highlight the role of family in both protecting the elderly and the instances of familiar identity theft by family members and other trusted people such as caregivers and home service providers.