Scammers are becoming more sophisticated every year, and unfortunately, older adults are often among their favorite targets. Whether it’s a phone call pretending to be Medicare, a text message claiming there’s a problem with a bank account, or an online relationship that turns into a request for money, scams can have devastating financial and emotional consequences.
The good news? Awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have.
At AmanaCare, we believe protecting seniors means caring for their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Here are some of the most common scams affecting older adults, warning signs to watch for, and steps to take if you or a loved one becomes a victim.
The Growing Problem of Elder Fraud
Financial exploitation is one of the most underreported forms of elder abuse.
According to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, scams targeting seniors continues to be a significant concern throughout the state. The FBI reports that internet-related fraud losses among older adults continue to rise, and Nebraska seniors are not immune.
Consider these facts:
- One in nine older adults experiences abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation.
- Only about one in 44 cases of financial exploitation is ever reported.
- Older adults lose billions of dollars annually to scams and fraud.
- Adults age 60 and older reported approximately $2.4 billion in fraud losses in a recent FTC report, a significant increase from previous years.
- Nebraska officials report that fraud and scam complaints continue to increase as criminals use more sophisticated technology, including artificial intelligence and impersonation tactics.
Many victims never report what happened because they feel embarrassed. Unfortunately, scammers count on that silence.
Why Seniors Are Often Targeted
Scammers often target older adults because they believe seniors are:
- More likely to answer phone calls
- More trusting of authority figures
- Less familiar with emerging technology
- Financially stable or retired
- Living alone or experiencing social isolation
In reality, scams can happen to anyone. Criminals are skilled at creating urgency, fear, and emotional pressure that can affect people of all ages.
Common Scams Affecting Nebraska Seniors
Medicare and Government Impersonation Scams
A caller claims to be from Medicare, Social Security, the IRS, or another government agency. They may say there is a problem with your benefits, demand payment, or request personal information. Remember: Government agencies do not demand immediate payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
Grandparent Scams
A scammer pretends to be a grandchild or other loved one experiencing an emergency. They may claim they have been arrested, injured, or stranded and need money immediately. Increasingly, scammers are using AI-generated voices that sound like real family members.
Romance Scams
A scammer develops an online relationship over weeks or months before asking for money, gift cards, or financial assistance. These scams often target individuals who are lonely or seeking companionship and can result in significant financial losses.
Tech Support Scams
A pop-up message or phone call claims your computer has been infected with a virus. The scammer asks for remote access to your device or requests payment to “fix” the problem.
Banking and Text Message Scams
You receive a text or email claiming there is suspicious activity on your account. The message includes a link or phone number that connects you directly to scammers.
Sweepstakes and Prize Scams
You are told you’ve won a prize, lottery, or sweepstakes but must first pay taxes, fees, or shipping costs to receive your winnings. A simple rule applies: if you have to pay money to receive a prize, it is likely a scam.
Warning Signs of a Scam
Many scams share common red flags:
- Pressure to act immediately
- Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps
- Threats involving Medicare, Social Security, or law enforcement
- Requests for passwords or banking information
- Offers that seem too good to be true
- Requests to keep information secret from family members
- Emotional manipulation designed to create fear, guilt, or urgency
If someone is pressuring you to make a quick decision, that is often the first warning sign.
What To Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, act quickly.
1. Stop Communication
- Hang up the phone
- Stop responding to texts or emails
- Block the number or account
2. Contact Your Financial Institution
Notify your bank or credit card company immediately.
They may be able to:
- Freeze accounts
- Stop pending transactions
- Issue new cards
- Flag suspicious activity
3. Protect Your Credit
Consider:
- Placing a fraud alert
- Freezing your credit
- Enrolling in a credit monitoring service
Many victims find peace of mind through services that monitor for identity theft and suspicious activity.
4. Change Passwords
Update passwords for:
- Banking accounts
- Email accounts
- Social media
- Online shopping accounts
5. Report the Scam
Reporting helps protect others and increases awareness.
Helpful resources include:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
ReportFraud.ftc.gov
1-877-382-4357
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
www.ic3.gov
AARP Fraud Watch Network
1-877-908-3360
Nebraska Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
1-800-727-6432
Nebraska Adult Protective Services
1-800-652-1999
A Simple Rule to Remember
When in doubt:
- Slow down.
- Verify independently.
- Call someone you trust.
Scammers count on urgency. Safety begins with slowing down.
Protecting the People We Love
Fraud prevention isn’t just about protecting money—it’s about protecting dignity, independence, and peace of mind.
At AmanaCare, we believe care extends beyond assistance in the home. By staying informed, having conversations about scams, and watching out for one another, we can help protect Nebraska seniors from financial exploitation and fraud.
Because everyone deserves to age safely, confidently, and with the support of a community that cares. www.amana-care.com
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