Scammers | Recognize the Signs

Watch out for these clues to phishing

Seniors are scammed every day. All of us who work at Federal Solutions have seen it, reported it, and worked with families to help them stop the fraud.

It’s heart-breaking. We get that telling the good guys from the bad guys isn’t easy.

Professional scammers most often prey on seniors by
creating a sense of urgency - making them feel as if they
have to act now, or risk losing essential benefits.

Beyond that, there are actual financial sales individuals who try to profit from seniors. It’s wrong. And, while we can’t change the world, we can help you know what to watch out for.

Phone Scams

Scammers often say they’re calling from the government, or the individual’s bank. They may say they need account information in order to stop penalties or fraud (when in fact this is fraud).

Before sharing any information, verify that the individual
actually represents that business; confirm on the company
website that the individual is who they say they are, and that
they work with the represented company.

Internet and Email Scams
Emails that request a response (click a link) that are from sound-alike websites (may contain address errors - instead of JimRose@YourBank, it may say something like JimRose@YourBamk).

It’s a great practice to not open any links or emails that could be “phishy” without having one other person look at it first - ask them whether it seems legitimate to them - four-eyes are always better.

Medicare and Health Insurance Scams
Scammers often target seniors by posing as Medicare representatives or offering fake health insurance plans, or selling them costly and unnecessary services.

Say “NO” to high-pressure and fear-tactics that insist on quick decisions without thoroughly considering the consequences.

Too Good to be True
Sadly, we have seen people who fell prey to offers (such as lottery winnings, free prizes, or unrealistic investment opportunities). Good news that’s real includes making investments with places rated by Standard & Poors, etc. Ask your Advisor to share ratings with your if you need to redistribute your assets, buy long-term-care, etc.

If it sounds crazy-good, it probably is.

2 Great Ways You can Help

1. Help the seniors you know understand common scams
   and warning signs.

2. Encourage them to stay informed and skeptical of
   unsolicited offers and any high-pressure tactics.
   

Senior scams pose a significant threat to older adults’ financial security and well-being. Federal Solutions Support, LLC, is committed to helping seniors, their loves ones, and our advisors understand common scams, how to recognize warning signs, and take proactive measures to prevent or halt fraud. Together, we can create a safer environment for seniors in a digital world filled with unfamiliar challenges for those who have not spent their lives online.