Criminals often target seniors because they see seniors as more trusting, polite, and less aware of the latest scams. Seniors also typically have savings accounts, own a home and have good credit. This combination make them very attractive to scammers. In fact, the FBI reports that seniors experience more the $3 billion in fraud losses annually and that elder fraud is a growing problem.

Regardless of your age, it is important to be aware of the common scams that target seniors. Share the information with your family and encourage the senior members of your family to be very alert to these scams. Here are just a few of the more common scams:

1. Grandparent Scam - The scammer will pose as a relative, often using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to mimic the relative's voice. The scammer will call and claim to need money immediately for a manufactured crisis.
2. Government Impersonator Scam - The scammer will claim to be a government employee and threaten to arrest or prosecute victims unless they agree to provide funds. These scammers can also pose as employees of a utility company and threaten to disconnect service unless funds are paid.
3. Charity Scam - The scammer will claim to work for a legitimate charity to gain the victim's trust. The criminal will then reach out about the charity's special fund or about a 'desperate need'.

Protect Yourself and Your Senior Family Members

1. Be very cautious of unsolicited phone calls, e-mails and door-to-door service offers.
2. Resist any pressure to act quickly. Scammers use a sense of urgency to create fear and lure the victim into immediate action.
3. Recognize the scam attempt and end any communication with the perpetrator. If it sounds 'fishy', it probably is.
4. Don't be embarrassed to tell a relative about the scam if you are worried that you have become a victim.
5. Report the scam to the authorities. You can contact your local FBI field office or submit a tip online.