Top 5 Online Scams Targeting Seniors in 2025
At the ePublic Safety Foundation, we believe that protecting our seniors means giving them the tools and knowledge they need to stay safe in an increasingly digital world. In 2025, scammers continue to evolve, using new tricks and technology to prey on older adults—especially those who may be less familiar with digital threats.
Here are the top 5 online scams seniors are facing this year, and how you can recognize—and stop—them before they do harm.
1. AI Voice Impersonation Scams
What it looks like:
You get a phone call or voicemail from someone who sounds exactly like your grandchild. They’re in trouble. They need money—fast. But it’s not really them.
What’s happening:
Scammers are using artificial intelligence to mimic voices based on social media videos or past phone recordings. The emotional pressure is intense, and it’s designed to get seniors to act without verifying.
How to protect yourself:
- Always call the person back directly or contact another family member to confirm.
- Establish a family password or code word to verify emergencies.
2. Tech Support Pop-Up Scams
What it looks like:
A message suddenly appears on your screen: “Your computer is infected! Call Microsoft support now!” A phone number is listed, and the screen may even freeze.
What’s happening:
This is a fake warning. Calling the number connects you with a scammer who pretends to be tech support and convinces you to give remote access—or pay for unnecessary “repairs.”
How to protect yourself:
- Close the browser window—don’t call the number.
- Never let anyone you didn’t contact first access your computer remotely.
3. Medicare & Health Insurance Fraud
What it looks like:
You get an email or call claiming to be from Medicare. They need to “verify your information” or offer a new medical device “covered by your plan.”
What’s happening:
Scammers posing as Medicare agents try to steal your personal info or trick you into giving up your ID or financial information.
How to protect yourself:
- Medicare will never call you unsolicited. Hang up and call the official number if unsure.
- Never share personal or insurance information over phone or email unless you initiated the contact.
4. Romance Scams
What it looks like:
You meet someone kind and charming through a dating site or social media. After building trust, they mention a crisis—and need your help.
What’s happening:
Romance scammers build emotional connections over weeks or months before requesting money, gift cards, or even access to financial accounts.
How to protect yourself:
- Be cautious of anyone who professes love quickly.
- Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
- Talk to a trusted friend or family member if something feels off.
5. Government Impersonation Scams
What it looks like:
A call or email claims to be from the IRS, Social Security, or law enforcement. They say your benefits are in danger—or worse, that you’ll be arrested—unless you take immediate action.
What’s happening:
Scammers use threats and fake badge numbers to scare seniors into sending payments or giving up sensitive information.
How to protect yourself:
- Government agencies will never threaten you over the phone.
- Hang up and contact the agency through its official website.
Final Thoughts: How Seniors Can Stay Protected
While scammers continue to get smarter, so can we. Here are three steps to take right now:
- Stay informed. Sign up for alerts from trusted organizations like EPSF or the FTC.
- Talk openly. Scams thrive in silence. Share what you know with friends, caregivers, and family.
- Report what you see. Even if you weren’t tricked, reporting scams helps protect others.
🛡️ Need help or want to report a scam? Visit epublicsf.org/report
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