What’s Changed, What Hasn’t, and How to Stay One Step Ahead

Scams haven’t slowed down; they’ve gotten smarter. In 2026, fraud targeting people over 60 is more sophisticated, more personal, and more convincing than ever. Scammers now use spoofed phone numbers, realistic emails, text messages, and even AI-generated voices to sound official, familiar, and urgent.

The goal is always the same:
Create fear, rush your decision, and separate you from your money or identity. Awareness is your first line of defense.

Medicare or Social Security Scam Call (Still the #1 Threat)

The scam:
You receive a phone call or text claiming your Medicare benefits are being cut off, your Social Security number has been “flagged,” or you need to “verify” information immediately.

The truth:
Medicare and Social Security do not call, text, or email you out of the blue asking for personal information.

What to do:

• Hang up immediately

• Do not press buttons or respond

• Never share your Social Security number, Medicare number, or banking details

• Report on the attempt at reportfraud.ftc.gov

The “You Owe the IRS” Threat (Now Often by Text or Email)

The scam:
A robocall, text, or email claims you owe back taxes and threatens arrest, wage garnishment, or frozen accounts unless you pay immediately, often via gift cards, crypto, or wire transfer.

The truth:
The IRS does not threaten arrest or demand immediate payment by phone, text, or email. Official communication starts with a letter.

What to do:

• Don’t panic

• Do not reply or click links

• Hang up or delete the message

• If concerned, contact the IRS directly using the number on irs.gov

Phony Contractors and “We’re Working in Your Neighborhood” Scams

The scam:
Someone knocks on your door or leaves a flyer claiming they noticed damage to your roof, driveway, or heating system and can fix it “today only” for a discounted cash price.

The truth:
Legitimate contractors don’t pressure you, demand cash, or avoid written agreements.

What to do:

• Ask for ID, license number, and proof of insurance

• Get written estimates from multiple contractors

• Never pay cash up front

• Check online reviews and verify the business independently.

New and Growing in 2026: AI Voice & “Family Emergency” Scams

The scam:
You receive a call that sounds exactly like your child or grandchild saying they’re in trouble and need money immediately.

The truth:
Scammers now use AI to clone voices from social media clips.

What to do:

• Pause

• Hang up

• Call your family member directly using a known number

• Never send money or gift cards without verification

A Steady Reminder

Scammers fail because people are careless. They succeed because they are persistent, practiced, and manipulative. Being cautious isn’t being paranoid. It’s being prepared.

Over 60 Dam Perspective

You’ve spent a lifetime building trust, relationships, and stability. Protecting what you’ve built isn’t fear; it's wisdom. Staying safe after 60 isn’t about knowing every scam.
It’s about slowing the moment down, verifying first, and never letting urgency make decisions for you.

Bring This Conversation to Your Group

“Don’t Get Taken – Scam Protection for Life After 60” Workshops are now available for community groups, organizations, churches, and workplaces.

📧 info@over60dam.net
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Because life after 60 is still yours to live and protect.