SCAMMERS LOVE SENIORS — Spot the Red Flags of Identity Theft Before It’s Too Late
Seniors are prime targets for identity theft.
Learn the top warning signs, common scams, and how R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys protect older adults from financial fraud.
It’s a harsh truth: seniors are among the most targeted victims of identity theft in California. Why? A combination of retirement savings, steady income sources, and—sadly—trusting behavior makes them ideal marks for scammers.
According to the FBI, older Americans lose more than $3 billion annually to scams, with identity theft being a major contributor.
At R23 Law, our California Identity Theft Victim Lawyers are deeply familiar with how quickly a senior’s life savings can disappear—and how devastating the emotional and financial toll can be. Here’s what families need to know to stay one step ahead.
Why Are Seniors Targeted for Identity Theft?
Criminals prey on what they perceive as weakness. Seniors often:
Are less familiar with technology, making them more vulnerable to digital scams
Rely on consistent income from Social Security or pensions
Exhibit a trusting nature, especially when lonely or isolated
Recognizing these risk factors is the first step in prevention.
Red Flags That Could Mean Identity Theft
1. Strange Charges on Bank or Credit Card Statements
Watch for:
Unfamiliar transactions
Withdrawals they didn’t authorize
Purchases from vendors you don’t recognize
These are classic signs that someone has gained access to financial accounts.
2. Calls or Letters About Accounts They Didn’t Open
If they receive:
Bills for unfamiliar accounts
Debt collection calls
Credit card offers for cards they didn’t request
…it’s time to investigate. These may indicate fraudulently opened accounts.
3. Suspicious Phone Calls or Emails
Scammers impersonate:
IRS or government agencies
Tech support staff
Lottery or sweepstakes reps
Even grandchildren in fake emergencies
Always verify before responding.
Most Common Scams Targeting Seniors
Romance scams: Fake relationships used to solicit money
Sweepstakes or lottery frauds: Demands for “processing fees”
Tech support hoaxes: Remote access schemes
Government impersonation: Threats of arrest without immediate payment
Grandchild-in-trouble scams: Urgent pleas for bail or emergency help
What To Do If You Suspect Senior Identity Theft
If any red flags arise, act fast:
1. Notify Financial Institutions
Freeze accounts
Replace cards
Review transactions
2. Place a Fraud Alert
Contact Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion
3. Check Their Credit Report
Visit AnnualCreditReport.com
4. Report the Theft
File a complaint at IdentityTheft.gov
5. Secure Their Personal Information
Change passwords
Shred old documents
Install credit monitoring
6. Call a Lawyer with Experience in Senior Identity Theft
R23 Law’s attorneys know how to take swift, effective action
Why Choose R23 Law?
Our R23 Law California Consumer Protection Attorneys handle identity theft claims exclusively—and we’re especially experienced in helping seniors recover from fraud. We know how to deal with credit bureaus, debt collectors, and legal paperwork so you don’t have to.
Our promise? You only pay if we win your case.
🖋️ Schedule your free consultation today and let us help protect your loved ones’ future.
