10/15/2026
Top Four Senior Scams
In North Texas, the following are the four most common scams affecting senior citizens:
1. Gold and Cash to Gold Scams:
How it Works: Scammers target older adults by pretending to be government officials.
They create a false crisis, such as claiming that the seniors' bank accounts have been compromised.
They pressure seniors to withdraw large sums of cash to purchase gold bars or cryptocurrency, which they then hand over to couriers.
2. AI-Assisted Fake Law Enforcement:
Scammers use caller ID spoofing to impersonate law enforcement officers.
They convince seniors that their loved ones are in legal trouble and use pressure tactics, fear tactics, and fake badge numbers to demand immediate payments to help resolve the situation.
3. Fake Warrants for Arrest:
Scammers convince seniors that they have outstanding warrants for arrest and pressure them into withdrawing cash or purchasing gift cards as a means to avoid arrest and jail time.
4. Phishing Scams:
Scammers send emails that appear to be from trusted companies.
These emails often demand personal information to keep accounts current, including Social Security numbers, bank details, dates of birth, or account passwords.
Important Reminders:
- Be aware that there are many other scams out there.
Always consult with trusted individuals before sending money to anyone.
- Remember, nothing is free.
- Time limits used to create urgency are often part of a scam.
- Law enforcement agencies will never call you asking for money.
- Never give out personal information over the phone.
- Do not agree to purchase gift cards as payment for anything.
- If you encounter fraud, report it at IC3.gov (https://www.ic3.gov).
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
