FBI Warns Against Cyber Scammers Targeting Seniors

According to the FBI, seniors face the highest risk for identity theft and phishing by online fraudsters, reports KFOX TV . The U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging recently estimated that American seniors lose $2.9 billion each year to scams, while the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau calculated that the average financial loss among people 50 to 59 was $13,400. Persons 60 to 69 lost $22,700 on average while those 70 to 79 lost $45,300. Americans 80 and older lost an average $39,200. Seniors often will not disclose falling victim to scams out of fear that their loved ones will think they cannot keep track of their finances. Preventive recommendations for seniors' families include keeping in touch to avoid isolation, closely monitoring their finances, warning them about fraudulent charities and sweepstakes, and providing technological aid when needed. The AARP Fraud Watch Network Hotline, the Federal Trade Commission, and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center are resources for families who suspect their loved ones have been targeted by online scams.