Top Scams Targeting Seniors in 2025

Financial scams targeting older adults are growing in number and complexity. The most common scams in 2025 are emotionally manipulative, highly sophisticated, and designed to isolate the victim.

Scams to Watch:

• Romance scams: Scammers build trust over months then request money

• Government impersonators: Fake IRS or Social Security calls threatening arrest

• Tech support scams: Fake alerts about computer viruses asking for remote access

• Sweepstakes fraud: Claims you’ve won but must pay fees to claim prizes

• Fake charities exploiting natural disasters or crises

  
  

What You Can Do:

• First and foremost, HANG UP if you do not recognise the phone number. Ignore emails and texts with alarming premises such as outstanding fines or warrants for arrest. 

• Participate in community fraud prevention workshops or online seminars.

• Designate a trusted person with power of attorney to help manage your finances if necessary.

• Monitor your credit report annually at annualcreditreport.com for unusual activity.

Key Contacts:

• Matadors CU Member Services: 818-993-6328

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): 1-877-FTC-HELP

• Your Local Police (Non-Emergency Line)

• ReportFraud.ftc.gov: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov