Quick Tips to Prevent Senior Scams

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Quick Tips to Protect Yourself from Senior Scams

Scammers are constantly developing more sophisticated methods to target seniors and steal personal information. From urgent phone calls to deceptive websites, their tactics are designed to create a sense of panic and bypass your natural caution. Fortunately, a few simple, proactive steps can provide a powerful defense against most common scams.

The Golden Rule: Never Give Information on an Unsolicited Call

This is the single most important rule to protect yourself. Scammers can fake caller ID information and even use AI to mimic the voices of loved ones. If you receive an unexpected call from anyone—even if it seems to be your bank, the IRS, or a family member—asking for personal or financial information, do not provide it. Hang up, and if the request seems legitimate, call them back using a phone number you know to be correct.

Strengthen Your Digital Defenses

  • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Avoid simple passwords like “password123” or your pet’s name. A strong password is long and includes a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Use a different password for each of your important accounts.
  • Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi: Free public Wi-Fi at places like coffee shops is not secure. Avoid accessing your online banking or making purchases on these networks, as criminals can intercept your information.
  • Look for the “S”: When making a payment online, always check that the website address begins with “https.” The “s” stands for secure and indicates the site is encrypted. If it only says “http,” do not enter any financial information.

Use Smarter Financial Habits

  • Prefer Credit Cards Over Debit Cards: When shopping online, use a credit card. Credit cards offer strong federal fraud protections that limit your liability. A debit card, on the other hand, is linked directly to your bank account, and recovering stolen funds can be much more difficult.
  • Freeze Your Credit: One of the most effective ways to prevent identity theft is to freeze your credit with the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This prevents anyone from opening a new line of credit in your name. You can easily unfreeze it temporarily when you need to apply for credit yourself.

A Key Part of Your Overall Protection

Protecting yourself from scams is a critical component of a larger asset protection strategy. These daily habits, combined with a well-drafted plan for your estate, create a comprehensive shield for your financial well-being.

If you have questions about how to best protect your personal information and assets, our experienced attorneys can help. Call our office at (919) 256-7000 to schedule a consultation.