Family guide
Protect Mom. Protect Dad.
A plain-language scam prevention page for seniors, caregivers, adult children, churches, and senior-serving organizations.
StopContactSaveEvidenceReportFast
Warning signs
When to slow down
Most senior-focused scams use fear, secrecy, urgency, or embarrassment.
Unexpected call
Caller claims to be a bank, deputy, Medicare, Social Security, IRS, utility, or family member.
Urgent demand
They say act now, keep it secret, or something bad will happen.
Strange payment
Gift cards, crypto, wire, payment app, cash pickup, or gold means stop immediately.
Family talk script
Use respect. Do not lecture. Embarrassment keeps victims quiet.
Start here
“I’m not checking up on you. I’m trying to make sure nobody pressures you into sending money before you can talk to someone you trust.”
Set the rule
No payment, gift card, wire, crypto, or account code should be sent because of a phone call or text.
Use a code word
Create a family verification word for emergency calls claiming a loved one is hurt, jailed, or stranded.
Trust beats shame.
Helpful links
Official help
Use verified reporting paths when money, identity, or government impersonation is involved.