National Senior Fraud Awareness Day: How to Spot and Prevent Scams Targeting Older Adults

Every year on May 15, National Senior Fraud Awareness Day serves as an important reminder to protect older adults from the growing number of scams targeting seniors. Fraudsters often view seniors...

Jennifer McDonnell

Every year on May 15, National Senior Fraud Awareness Day serves as an important reminder to protect older adults from the growing number of scams targeting seniors. Fraudsters often view seniors as easier targets due to their trust, financial stability, and willingness to engage—making awareness and prevention essential. Whether you’re a senior, caregiver, or family member, staying informed can make all the difference in avoiding financial loss and identity theft.

Common Scams That Target Seniors

Scammers continue to evolve their tactics, but several types of fraud consistently target older adults. Knowing what to look out for can help you or a loved one avoid becoming a victim.

Medicare and Health Insurance Scams

Fraudsters impersonate Medicare representatives, insurance agents, or government workers to steal personal information. One common version of this scam involves telemarketing calls telling seniors they qualify for “extra benefits,” but only if they share their Social Security number or Medicare ID. These pitches often imply that benefits are limited to low-income individuals—creating pressure and confusion to get seniors to act quickly.

Phone and Telemarketing Scams

Seniors are frequently targeted with unsolicited phone calls offering prizes, products, or special programs. These scammers try to rush victims into providing payment information or personal data. Some even use caller ID spoofing to make the phone number appear legitimate.

Grandparent Scams

In this emotional manipulation scam, a caller pretends to be a grandchild in trouble—claiming to need money immediately for an emergency, accident, or arrest. The scammer pleads with the victim not to tell anyone, making it harder for the senior to verify the story.

Tech Support Scams

Scammers impersonate well-known technology companies, claiming your device is infected or compromised. They pressure you to provide remote access or pay for unnecessary software or repairs.

Romance and Friendship Scams

Fraudsters create fake online profiles to take advantage of seniors seeking companionship. Over time, they build trust and then start asking for money for medical bills, travel, or emergencies.

Identity Theft

Identity theft remains one of the fastest-growing crimes affecting seniors. Scammers gather personal information through phishing emails, data breaches, or fraudulent phone calls, then use the information to open accounts, file taxes, or access financial resources.

Warning Signs of a Scam

While scams vary in approach, most share similar red flags. Pay close attention if you encounter any of the following:

  • High-pressure tactics urging you to “act now”
  • Requests for personal information such as Medicare ID, Social Security number, or bank details
  • Unsolicited calls claiming you're eligible for special health benefits
  • Demands for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards
  • Someone asking you to keep a request secret—especially involving money
  • Emails or texts with suspicious links or unexpected attachments
  • Offers that sound too good to be true

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to pause and verify before sharing any information.

What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

If you believe you or a loved one has been targeted or victimized, taking quick action can help minimize damage. Here are trusted resources available to seniors:

  • Medicare Fraud Hotline: 1‑800‑MEDICARE — Report suspicious calls or billing issues.
  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report scams or identity theft at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  • Identity Theft Resource Center: Free assistance available at idtheftcenter.org.
  • AARP Fraud Watch Network: Scam alerts and guidance at aarp.org/money/scams-fraud.
  • Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection: Michigan residents can report fraud or seek help at michigan.gov/ag.

Protecting Yourself from “Extra Benefits” Scam Calls

One of the most common scams affecting seniors—especially Medicare beneficiaries—involves telemarketing callers claiming you are “missing out on extra benefits” or that you “qualify for special programs only available to low-income individuals.” These calls often:

  • Pretend to be from Medicare or a licensed agent
  • Ask for your Medicare number “to check eligibility”
  • Use fear or urgency to pressure you into switching plans
  • Promise unrealistic or nonexistent benefits

Remember: Medicare will never call you asking for personal information, and legitimate agents must follow strict compliance rules. If you’re ever unsure, hang up and call a trusted, licensed advisor directly.

Stay Informed. Stay Protected.

National Senior Fraud Awareness Day is a powerful reminder that education is one of the most effective tools against scammers. By understanding common fraud tactics, watching for warning signs, and knowing where to seek help, seniors can stay safer and more confident in their day‑to‑day choices.

If you ever receive a suspicious Medicare or health insurance call—or simply want help verifying whether an offer is legitimate—don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to provide guidance, answer questions, and make sure you stay protected year‑round.