As reported by UVA Health geriatrician Laurie Archbald-Pannone, MD, scams targeting seniors have become a widespread issue. She frequently hears from her patients who have been victims of fraud. In 2023, seniors aged 60 and older lost over $3 billion to scams, highlighting the severity of the problem.
According to The Conversation, Archbald-Pannone shares valuable tips for seniors to protect themselves from falling victim to scams. She advises seniors to verify the legitimacy of any unsolicited offers they receive by conducting an online search. Urgent offers that require immediate action, especially online, should be approached with caution. Additionally, she encourages seniors not to be embarrassed and to report any incidents of fraud.
The tactics used by scammers targeting the elderly can change rapidly, making it difficult for seniors to keep up with the latest technology and techniques. Archbald-Pannone emphasizes the importance of staying informed and vigilant to avoid falling victim to fraud. By being proactive and staying informed, seniors can better protect themselves and avoid becoming targets of fraudsters.
As a respected advocate for seniors’ well-being, Archbald-Pannone likens prevention efforts for fraud to vaccination for viruses, explaining that building up defenses against scams can help limit the spread of this epidemic. By taking these steps