Fraud prevention: How to help older family members avoid scams

This advisory highlights the sharp rise in elder fraud losses and explains how scammers target seniors through phishing, tech-support, romance, grandparent, and investment scams, increasingly using deepfakes and voice cloning. It recommends layered defenses: open, shame-free family communication and a verify-before-sending-money routine; bank safeguards and alerts; strong device and account hygiene (password manager, 2FA, updates, blocking popups/robocalls, reputable security software); and a rapid response plan (freeze transfers, document evidence, report to IC3/FTC, credit freeze, emotional support). It also urges ongoing monitoring, regular account reviews, and periodic security checkups to make families more resilient.