Boomers Beware: Protect Yourself from These 12 Common Scams Targeting You

Boomers are a prime target for scammers because they are more likely to have assets and savings than younger generations. They are also more likely to be trusting and less likely to be familiar with the latest scams. Scammers prey on Boomers for a number of reasons, including their age, wealth, and trust in authority figures.

Here are 12 common scams that are targeting boomers in 2023:

1. Grandparent scam:

In this scam, the scammer calls a Boomer pretending to be their grandchild and claims to be in trouble and need money. The Boomer may be told that their grandchild has been arrested, injured, or kidnapped. The scammer will then ask the Boomer to send money to help their grandchild.

2. Tech support scam:

Scammers call victims, claiming to be from a tech support company, and offer to fix their computer problems for a fee. Once victims give the scammers access to their computers, the scammers can steal their personal information or install malware. Another similar one convinces the victim to go and buy gift cards in multiple quantities at various stores. They have you stay on the phone with them while they’re doing it.

3. Jury duty scam:

Scammers call victims, claiming they failed to appear for jury duty and will be arrested if they don’t pay a fine.

4. Timeshare scam:

In this scam, the scammer convinces the Boomer to buy a timeshare that is worthless or overpriced. The scammer may also promise the Boomer that they will be able to rent out their timeshare for a profit, but this is rarely possible.

5. Phishing scam:

In this scam, the scammer sends the Boomer an email or text message that appears to be from a legitimate company, such as a bank or credit card company. The email or text message will contain a link that, when clicked, will take the Boomer to a fake website. The website will then ask the Boomer to enter their personal information, such as their credit card number or Social Security number.

6. Social Security scam:

Scammers call victims claiming to be from the Social Security Administration and threaten to suspend their benefits if they don’t provide personal information.
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7. Investment scam:

Scammers promise victims high returns on investments in fake or fraudulent companies. Victims often lose all of their investment money.

8. Charity scam:

In this scam, the scammer calls or emails the Boomer asking for a donation to a fake charity. The scammer may also claim to be representing a legitimate charity, but they will pocket the donation for themselves.

9. Online pet scams:

One common type of online pet scam involves scammers creating fake listings for puppies or other animals. These listings may feature stolen photos and descriptions, and the scammers may offer the pets at a discounted price in order to lure in buyers. Another common type of online pet scam involves scammers impersonating legitimate pet breeders or rescue organizations. These scammers may create fake websites or social media pages, and they may use stolen testimonials or other information to make themselves seem credible. Once the buyer has paid for the pet, the scammer will disappear, and the buyer will never receive the animal.

10. IRS scam:

Scammers call victims claiming to be from the IRS and threaten them with arrest or fines if they don’t pay back taxes. The IRS will never call you out of the blue to demand payment.

11. Medicare scam:

Scammers call victims claiming to be from Medicare and offer them free medical supplies or services. They may also try to sell them fake Medicare cards.

12. Sweepstakes scam:

Scammers send victims letters or emails claiming that they have won a sweepstakes or lottery. The victims are then asked to send money to cover taxes or other fees before they can collect their winnings.

How to protect yourself from scams

Be wary of unsolicited calls, emails, and text messages. Don’t give out your personal information to anyone you don’t know and trust. Don’t send money to anyone who asks for it upfront, especially if you haven’t met them in person. Do your research before investing in anything or donating to any charity. Report any suspicious activity to the authorities. If you are unsure about something, it is always best to err on the side of caution and not take any action. You can always call a trusted friend or family member for advice. If you think you may have been scammed, contact your local police department or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC can help you file a complaint and get your money back.

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