Washington Loses Due to Scams and Fraud
People Over 60 Lost Over 3.4 Million Dollars
People Over 60 Lost Over 3.4 Million Dollars
Washington State ranked 11th in the nation for senior fraud losses of $88,958,679 according to FBI state statistics. Those numbers are up in 2024.
People Over 60 Lost Over 3.4 Million Dollars
People Over 60 Lost Over 3.4 Million Dollars
People Over 60 Lost Over 3.4 Million Dollars
Seniors are often targeted by scammers because they may be more trusting, socially isolated, or unfamiliar with newer technologies. Many also have retirement savings or steady income, making them attractive targets for financial scams. Cognitive decline can further increase vulnerability, making it easier for fraudsters to exploit them.
Advice on Scams and Fraud
tricks scammers use
- Urgent or emergency calls: Scammers pretend to be a grandchild or loved one in trouble, urging immediate money transfers for bail, medical bills, or travel.
- Government impersonation: They claim to be from the IRS, Social Security, or Medicare, threatening arrest or benefits loss unless money is paid.
- Prize or lottery scams: Seniors are told they’ve won a prize but must first pay fees or taxes to claim it—when no prize exists.
- Tech support scams: Fraudsters pose as tech support agents, convincing victims their computer is infected and demanding payment to “fix” it.
- Fake bills or services: Scammers send phony invoices or claim the victim owes money for services never rendered.
- Romance scams: Criminals build fake online relationships, then invent emergencies or expenses to trick victims into sending money.
- Charity scams: They solicit donations for fake causes, especially after disasters or during holidays.
- Home repair fraud: Imposters offer unnecessary or poor-quality services, demand upfront payment, then disappear.
- Threats and intimidation: Scammers use fear—threatening lawsuits, arrest, or violence—to coerce quick payments.
- Spoofed caller ID: They fake legitimate phone numbers to appear trustworthy, making it easier to deceive victims.
How to avoid getting scammed.
- Don’t share personal information
- Hang up on suspicious calls
- Beware of unsolicited offers
- Verify before you trust
- Don’t pay with gift cards
- Check your accounts regularly
- Use call blocking and spam filters
- Stay informed
- Don't open unfamiliar emails
- Don't provide financial information via email button or link
- Keep antivirus software updated
- Sounds to good to be true, it is.