Staying Safe Online
Scammers target older adults, and scams are getting harder to spot, including ones that use artificial intelligence. A few simple habits protect you well.
Five golden rules
- Slow down. Scammers create panic and urgency. A real emergency can wait five minutes while you check.
- Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash sent by courier. No real government agency, bank, or company asks you to pay this way.
- Don't trust caller ID or links. Phone numbers and email names can be faked. Hang up and call the number on your card, statement, or the company's official website.
- Never share your Social Security number, bank details, passwords, or the six-digit codes texted to you.
- Talk to someone you trust before sending money or personal information. Scammers often say "keep this secret." That is a warning sign.
Scams that use AI
Cloned voices
A caller sounds exactly like your grandchild or another relative, saying they are in trouble and need money fast. Hang up and call them back on a number you know. Many families agree on a secret "family password" for emergencies.
Fake videos and photos
Videos of celebrities or officials promoting investments or "free" products may be fake. Be doubtful of anything that promises easy money.
Perfect-looking messages
AI helps scammers write emails and texts with no spelling mistakes. Good writing no longer proves a message is real.
If you think you were scammed
- Stop contact with the scammer. Don't send any more money.
- Call your bank or card company right away. Quick action can sometimes stop or reverse a payment.
- Change passwords on any account the scammer may have reached.
- Report it using the sites below. You are not foolish, since these scams fool smart people every day.
Where to get help and report scams
- ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission. Reports help investigators spot trends.
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
Report internet crime, especially losses of money online.
- AARP Fraud Watch Network
Scam alerts and tips. The free Fraud Watch Helpline is 877-908-3360.
- Social Security – Scam Information
How to recognize Social Security scams. Social Security will never threaten you or demand payment by gift card.
- FTC Consumer Advice – Scams
Plain-language descriptions of current scams and how to avoid them.
- National Do Not Call Registry
Register your phone number to cut down on telemarketing calls.