Recognizing the 'Senior Benefits' Scam
Scammers often impersonate government agencies, health providers, or benefit programs to deceive older adults. These fraudulent callers might claim there is an issue with your benefits, or offer a new, improved benefit plan that requires you to 'verify' personal information. The sophistication of these tactics has increased, with scammers even using caller ID spoofing to make calls appear local or from a legitimate agency. Genuine government agencies like Medicare or the Social Security Administration typically communicate via mail first, especially concerning sensitive information or changes to your benefits, and will never threaten you for immediate payment over the phone.
Why are seniors targeted?
Scammers specifically target older individuals for a combination of reasons. Seniors often have considerable assets, are sometimes less tech-savvy, and can be more trusting. Furthermore, they are frequently the primary decision-makers for their finances and are less likely to question a caller's authority, especially if the caller ID appears legitimate. The psychological tactics used, such as creating a sense of urgency or fear, are highly effective on those who may not be as familiar with modern scam techniques.
Immediate Actions to Block Unwanted Calls
When you receive a suspicious call, your first response is your best defense. The most important rule is to simply hang up. Do not engage with the caller, and never provide any personal information, even if they claim to be verifying your identity. Engaging with scammers, even to tell them to stop calling, can sometimes result in more calls.
Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service that helps reduce unwanted telemarketing calls from legitimate companies. While scammers ignore this registry, it is still a crucial first step that can significantly reduce the volume of nuisance calls, making it easier to identify illegitimate ones. You can register both your home and mobile phone numbers online at DoNotCall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you wish to register.
Use call-blocking tools
Both mobile phones and landline services offer options to block unwanted calls directly. Most smartphones include built-in features to silence or block calls from unknown numbers.
- For smartphones: You can manually block numbers one-by-one or use apps to automatically filter spam calls. Apps like Hiya, Nomorobo, and YouMail are available and use data from other users to predict and block likely scam calls.
- For landlines and VoIP: Check with your phone service provider about their specific call-blocking and call-labeling services. Some providers, like Verizon and Spectrum, offer built-in spam alert features that identify suspicious callers on your caller ID. Standalone call-blocking devices are also available for traditional landlines.
Long-Term Strategies for Prevention
Beyond immediate blocking, adopting proactive strategies is essential for long-term protection against scam calls.
Educate and stay informed
Knowledge is a powerful tool against fraud. Staying aware of the latest scam tactics helps you recognize red flags. Encourage elderly family members to be skeptical of all unsolicited communications, whether by phone, email, or text. Websites from organizations like the FTC, FBI, and AARP regularly update their lists of common scams targeting seniors.
Safeguard personal information
Never share sensitive details like your Social Security number, Medicare number, bank account details, or passwords over the phone with an unsolicited caller. Remind loved ones that legitimate government agencies will not ask for this information in an unverified phone call. Set up multi-factor authentication on online accounts for an extra layer of security.
Create a trusted contact list
Working with a trusted family member or financial advisor can provide an extra layer of oversight. AARP suggests setting up a "trusted contact" on financial accounts who can be alerted by the institution if suspicious activity is detected. For those with memory concerns, consider simplified devices, like the RAZ Memory Cell Phone, that can be remotely managed by a caregiver to block all non-contact calls.
Taking Action: Reporting and Recovery
If you have engaged with a scammer, or believe a fraud has occurred, immediate action is necessary.
Report the scam
Reporting suspicious calls is crucial for law enforcement agencies to track and shut down scam operations. Report all scam attempts, even if no money was lost, to the following agencies:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Use ReportFraud.ftc.gov to file a report. The FTC shares this data with law enforcement agencies worldwide.
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): For internet-related scams, this is the appropriate resource.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: Call 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311) for personalized support from a case manager.
Act on fraud
If you or a loved one has lost money or disclosed personal information, take these steps immediately:
- Contact Financial Institutions: Notify your bank, credit card companies, and any other relevant financial institutions to report fraudulent activity and secure your accounts.
- Credit Freeze: Consider placing a credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus to prevent scammers from opening new credit in your name.
- Notify Law Enforcement: File a police report with your local law enforcement agency. This can be important for recovery efforts and for disputing fraudulent charges.
Comparison Table: Call-Blocking Methods
| Method | Cost | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Do Not Call Registry | Free | Reduces calls from legitimate telemarketers | Does not stop illegal scam calls; can take 31 days to take effect | Baseline protection for all phone numbers |
| Built-in Smartphone Block | Free | Instantly blocks selected numbers or all unknown callers | Requires manual blocking; might accidentally block wanted numbers; some unknown calls may still slip through | Quick, specific blocking on mobile phones |
| Carrier Call-Blocking | Varies (often free) | Automatically filters and labels spam calls; integrated with phone service | Effectiveness varies by carrier; may require opt-in or extra fee for premium features | Broad, automated protection for both landline and mobile |
| Third-Party Apps (e.g., Nomorobo) | Varies (some free) | Advanced filtering and spam identification features | Possible monthly subscription fee; may require sharing call data with app developers | Advanced, dedicated scam protection |
| RAZ Memory Phone | Hardware cost | Remotely managed; blocks all non-contact calls; very high protection for vulnerable seniors | Requires purchasing a specialized device; not suitable for those who need to receive calls from non-contacts | Seniors with cognitive decline who need maximum protection |
Conclusion
While scam calls remain a persistent threat, especially those impersonating "senior benefits" programs, a multi-layered approach can be highly effective. The combination of registering on the National Do Not Call Registry, using built-in or carrier-provided call-blocking tools, and maintaining strong personal vigilance creates a robust defense. Staying informed about current scam trends and knowing how to report fraud are essential actions to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from becoming a victim. For any questions or to get started, the National Elder Fraud Hotline offers a reliable point of contact for personalized assistance and resources.
Outbound Link
For more information on preventing and reporting various types of fraud, visit the official government resource provided by the Federal Trade Commission: ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
