Scam Prevention Guide for Seniors

Step 1: Recognize Common Scam Tactics

Scammers often use high-pressure tactics, impersonate trusted institutions, or claim urgent problems needing immediate attention. Always be skeptical if you are pressured into making financial decisions.

• Fake technical support calls
• Impersonation of government officials
• Fraudulent lottery or sweepstakes notifications

Step 2: Verify Caller and Contact Information

Before taking any action, always check the caller’s identity. Hang up and use a known, trusted phone number to verify details with the organization. Refer to trusted sources such as the National Council on Aging and state Attorney General websites for further guidance.

Step 3: Protect Your Personal Details

Keep your financial and personal data private. Share this guideline with family and friends, and use strong, unique passwords that you change regularly.

Step 4: Trust Your Instincts and Stay Informed

When something feels off, trust that feeling. Stay updated by consulting reliable sources such as government websites or local community centers, and learn from recent case studies to spot red flags early.

Step 5: Educate Yourself with Actionable Tips

• Do not hand over personal details to unknown callers
• Keep a list of emergency contacts for quick verification
• Monitor your financial statements regularly
• Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement immediately

Step 6: Share Your Knowledge

Discuss scam prevention tips with other seniors and loved ones. Real-life experiences, like a neighbor's story of someone pretending to be a relative in distress, can remind everyone to stay cautious.

Additional Resources

For more information, visit resources such as the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office and other trusted organizations dedicated to preventing senior citizen scams.