13 Feb What Are the Latest Scams Targeting Older Adults?

The Woodlands weighs in on how to protect yourself.

In case you missed it, February 11, 2025 was Safer Internet Day USA. The theme for this year was “too good to be true.”

At The Woodlands at Furman, we understand that technology is a great tool for staying connected, informed and entertained. In honor of Safer Internet Day USA, we’re shedding light on some of the most sophisticated internet scams circulating today. By staying informed, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from online fraud.

By now, you probably know the basics of internet safety: Don’t have easy-to-guess passwords like “Password1234!.” Don’t use unsecured public Wi-Fi. Don’t click on links from spam or emails. Never give out passwords or Social Security numbers. Always check the domain name and email to verify the organization before you click on a link. Better yet, never click on a link, even if it says the name of a friend or family member unless you verify the email address. 

It used to be easy to tell who the scammers were. Misspelled names, poor grammar and unprofessional designs and graphics were all red flags that the communication was not legitimate. Today, scammers have become much more sophisticated. Here’s what to watch out for.

1. AI-Generated Impersonation Scams

Scammers are now using artificial intelligence to mimic voices and images, making their deceptions more convincing than ever. With just a short clip of someone’s voice—often taken from social media or voicemail recordings—fraudsters can create realistic-sounding messages.

Example: You receive a call from a relative claiming to be in distress, asking for immediate financial help. The voice sounds exactly like them, but in reality, it’s an AI-generated scam. Before sending money, always verify the situation by calling the person back on a known number or reaching out to another family member.

How do they do this? And how can you avoid having your voice sample AI-generated? If you answer the phone call from a number you don’t recognize, avoid saying hello or speaking at length. Even a little sampling is often enough to create an AI-generated voice sample. If it is important, they will leave a message. Some experts say to never answer the phone at all from an unknown number.

2. Medicare and Health Insurance Scams

With healthcare always being a concern, scammers often pose as Medicare representatives to steal personal information.

Example: You might get a call, email or text saying you need to update your Medicare details or that you qualify for a new benefit. These scammers may use official logos and professional language to appear legitimate. Remember, Medicare will never ask for sensitive information over the phone or via email.

3. Fake Tech Support Scams

Tech support fraud remains a persistent issue, but it has evolved. Scammers may pose as representatives from Microsoft, Apple or even your internet provider, and the caller ID may actually say they are from a legitimate agency, company or organization. Don’t fall for it. 

Example: A pop-up warning appears on your computer screen claiming that your system is infected. It provides a number to call, where a scammer will attempt to gain remote access to your device and demand payment for unnecessary repairs. If you receive such alerts, don’t call the number or click on any links. Instead, reach out to a trusted tech support provider.

Similar scams using PayPal, Venmo and other online payment systems are also happening. Scammers say that your account has been hacked and they need your password to shut it down. 

4. Online and Text Shopping, Delivery and Toll Scams

More of us shop online like never before, which makes fake retail websites and fraudulent package delivery scams a growing problem.

Example: You receive a text or email claiming that a package couldn’t be delivered and that you need to click a link to reschedule. These links often lead to fake websites designed to steal personal and payment information. Always verify tracking details directly through the retailer’s official website.

Another scam is getting a package wrongly mailed to you. Being the good person you are, you might call the number on the invoice to let them know you have their package. Then the scammers will try to get your personal information. Also, see fake QR codes in this blog on point #8. If you get a wrong delivery, simply write “return to sender” and let the post office deal with it. 

Another scam on the rise is unpaid toll scams that purport to be from a state agency. Again, real agencies will never reach out to you via text. Never click on those links!

5. Romance and Friendship Scams

Loneliness is something scammers exploit, and they often do so by posing as potential romantic partners or friendly connections online.

Example: You start chatting with someone new through a dating site or social media platform. Over time, they gain your trust, then suddenly have an emergency and need money. They may claim to be overseas or dealing with an urgent medical situation. Be cautious of anyone asking for financial assistance, no matter how genuine they seem.

6. Fake Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams

As interest in digital investments grows, scammers are promoting fraudulent investment opportunities, particularly in cryptocurrency.

Example: You see an online advertisement or receive a message promising high returns on a small investment. Often, these scams use fake celebrity endorsements or create phony testimonials to appear legitimate. Be wary of any investment that seems “too good to be true.” Always consult a trusted financial advisor before making any decisions.

7. Social Security Scams

Scammers frequently target Social Security recipients by claiming their benefits are at risk.

Example: You receive a call or email saying your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity and that you need to verify your identity by providing personal details. The Social Security Administration will never threaten immediate action over the phone. If you’re concerned, contact them directly through their official number.

This similar scam is also being done using the IRS as the official agency. You’re told you’re late and you must pay now or suffer consequences, including jail and seizure of property.

8. The QR Code Scam

Scammers are now using fake QR codes to trick people. They replace legitimate QR codes, like ones on parking meters or restaurant menus, with their own. When you scan the fake code, it can take you to a harmful website or download malware onto your phone.

Example: You scan a QR code at a restaurant to see the menu, but instead, you’re sent to a website asking for personal or payment information, or to download suspicious software. Always be cautious when scanning QR codes. If you scan a QR code and it seems suspicious, do not plug in any information and immediately close out of any links it may have opened for you.

How to Stay Safe

While scammers are getting smarter, you can stay one step ahead by following these best practices:

• Verify Before You Act: If you receive an urgent message, pause and verify the situation through a trusted source.
• Don’t Act Fast. Statements like, “You must act today!” and feeling pressured are dead giveaways that you are dealing with a scammer and not a professional. In the real world, there is always time for bureaucracy and verification. You can always say, “What is your number? I will call you back.” And then check the number to see if it is linked to the actual business or agency. 
• Protect Your Personal Information: Never share sensitive details via phone, email or text unless you are 100% certain of the recipient’s legitimacy. Even then, question why they need that information. 
• Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication: Secure your accounts with unique passwords and enable additional security measures wherever possible.
• Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Requests: Whether it’s a phone call, email or text, treat unexpected messages with caution.
• Stay Updated on Scams: Regularly check resources like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the AARP Fraud Watch Network for updates on emerging scams.

Final Thoughts

At The Woodlands at Furman, your safety is our priority. The internet is an incredible tool, but it’s essential to navigate it with awareness and caution. By recognizing the latest scams and taking preventive steps, you can protect yourself and continue to enjoy all the benefits of the digital world without falling victim to fraud.

If you ever have concerns about an online interaction, don’t hesitate to seek advice from family, friends or a trusted tech professional.