Scams can come through unexpected calls, emails, or messages that seem legitimate. Even careful people can be caught off guard by a convincing story or a request that creates a sense of urgency. If you've sent money, shared personal information, or given someone access to your accounts, acting quickly can limit further harm. Senior Helpers shares practical steps to help you respond to senior scams, protect your information, and know who to contact in the US or Canada.
What to Do First After a Scam
Stop communicating with the person who contacted you. Don't answer further calls or messages, click their links, or send additional money. Scammers sometimes contact victims again, pretending they can recover lost funds for a fee. These follow-up attempts are typically part of senior scams.
Contact your bank or credit card company using the phone number on the back of your card or its official website. Explain what happened and ask whether they can stop or reverse the payment. If you used gift cards, contact the issuing company immediately and report the transaction. Keep the cards and receipts in case they're needed.
Write down the details while they're still fresh. Keep a record of the following:
- Dates and amounts of payments
- Names, phone numbers, and email addresses used by the scammer
- Website addresses and messages
- Receipts, bank statements, and screenshots
These details can make it easier to explain what happened when you contact your bank or report the incident.
Secure Your Accounts and Personal Information
If you shared a password, change it immediately. Use different passwords for each account and turn on two-factor authentication wherever it's available. If the scammer accessed your computer or phone remotely, have a trusted technician check the device before using it for sensitive transactions.
If you shared your Social Security number in the US, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the credit bureaus. In Canada, contact the credit bureaus to ask about fraud alerts and steps to protect your credit file. A trusted family member can help you make these calls if needed.
Where to Report Senior Scams
Reporting senior scams can help authorities identify patterns and investigate fraudulent activity, even if recovering the money isn't possible. The right agency depends on where you live and how the scam happened.
In the United States, you can:
- Report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission.
- File a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center for online scams.
- Contact your local police department to ask about filing a report.
In Canada, report the incident to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Talk to Someone You Trust
You don't have to handle the aftermath alone. Tell a family member or trusted friend what happened. They can help you contact the bank, organize records, and watch for follow-up messages or calls. Be especially cautious of anyone who promises to recover your money in exchange for an upfront payment.
If the experience leaves you feeling anxious or overwhelmed, consider talking with your doctor or someone you trust about the support you need.
A Stronger Support System for Seniors at Home
Recovering from a scam can be stressful, and having someone to talk to can make the days that follow a little easier. Senior Helpers Redlands provides in-home companionship and assistance with everyday activities, giving older adults in Redlands, Loma Linda, Highland, Yucaipa, and Colton opportunities for regular social contact and added support at home. Contact us to learn more about our senior services!