As technology continues to evolve, so do the tactics of scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals. Seniors are often targeted because scammers believe they can be more easily deceived. It's important to stay vigilant and informed. At Focus Homecare, we are here to highlight some common scams to watch out for, along with tips to help you avoid falling victim.

1. Impersonation Scams

Scammers may pretend to be someone you know—like a family member, friend, or even government officials—claiming that you owe money or need to take urgent action.
💡 Tip: Always verify the identity of anyone asking for personal or financial information. Call the person or organization directly using a trusted phone number before taking any action.

2. Phishing Emails and Texts

Fraudsters send emails or texts that appear to be from legitimate companies, asking you to click on links, download attachments, or share sensitive information.
💡 Tip: Never click on links or download attachments from unknown sources. If you're unsure, visit the website directly by typing the address into your browser, rather than clicking a link.

3. Lottery or Prize Scams

You receive a message saying you've won a prize or lottery, but you need to pay fees or taxes upfront to claim your winnings.
💡 Tip: Remember—if you didn't enter a lottery, you didn’t win! Legitimate contests don’t ask for payment upfront. Always be skeptical of unsolicited prize notifications.

4. Tech Support Scams

A caller claims to be from a well-known tech company, telling you there’s a problem with your computer or account that needs immediate attention.
💡 Tip: Hang up and call the company’s customer service number directly if you suspect fraud. No legitimate company will cold-call you asking for remote access to your device.

5. Fake Charity Scams

During times of crisis or natural disasters, scammers may pretend to represent a charity and ask for donations.
💡 Tip: Before donating, research the charity. Check online for reviews or visit the charity’s official website to ensure it's legitimate.

6. Online Shopping Scams

Fraudulent websites may offer attractive deals, but when you pay, you never receive the product—or it’s a cheap imitation.
💡 Tip: Stick to well-known, trusted online retailers. Before buying, check reviews and look for signs of a secure website (such as a padlock symbol next to the web address).

How to Protect Yourself:

• Be Skeptical: If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Don’t Share Personal Info: Never give out personal or financial information over the phone or through email.
• Use Strong Passwords: Protect your online accounts with unique and strong passwords.
• Stay Informed: Talk to family, friends, or caregivers about any suspicious messages or phone calls you receive.
• Report Scams: If you believe you've been targeted, report it to local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Stay safe, stay smart, and share this message with others who may need a reminder.

#SeniorSafety #ScamAwareness #ProtectYourself #StayInformed