Senior Scam Watch
Source-backed scam trends and alerts to help seniors and families stay protected.
Stay Informed
We monitor trusted sources so you don’t have to.
Spot the Signs
Learn how to recognize common scams.
Get Help Fast
If something feels wrong, we’re here for you.
You’re Not Alone
Helping seniors across Pinellas County stay safe.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
Florida & Local Alerts
Scam warnings specific to Florida and the Pinellas County area
Storm & Hurricane Repair Scams
After Florida storms, scammers pose as roofers, tree-removal crews, or FEMA officials. They demand large cash payments up front for repairs or 'disaster relief' and then disappear without doing the work.
What to do
Never pay in full up front. Verify any contractor's license at MyFloridaLicense.com before hiring. Remember that real FEMA representatives never charge a fee.
Fake Utility & Government Callers
Callers pretend to be from Duke Energy, your county office, or a Florida state agency. They threaten to shut off your power or have you arrested unless you pay immediately with gift cards or a payment app.
What to do
Hang up. Call the company back using the number printed on your bill. No real utility or government agency ever demands payment by gift card.
Robocalls & Unwanted Telemarketing
Florida seniors get flooded with robocalls about fake auto warranties, Medicare cards, and prize winnings. Answering or pressing a number tells scammers your line is active and invites even more calls.
What to do
Do not press any keys. Add your number to Florida's Do Not Call list. Let calls from unknown numbers go to voicemail.
Identity Theft in Florida
Stolen mail, data breaches, and phishing messages put Florida seniors at high risk of identity theft. Thieves use your information to open accounts or file fraudulent tax returns in your name.
What to do
Review your bank and card statements every month. Freeze your credit with the three credit bureaus. Report any theft to the Florida Attorney General.
Current Scam Trends
Key statistics from trusted government and consumer protection sources
Older Adults Lost $3.4 Billion in 2023
$3.4 Billion
In 2023, adults aged 60 and over reported losing $3.4 billion to fraud, the highest ever recorded.
Investment Scams Are #1 for Seniors
Investment Scams
Investment scams caused the highest losses for people age 60+ in 2023.
Phone Calls Are Most Common Scam Contact
Phone Calls
Scammers most often reach seniors by phone, making it the top method for fraud contact.
Tech Support Scams Rapidly Increasing
Tech Support Scams
Reports of tech support scams targeting older adults rose 37% in 2023.
Fake Government Calls Targeting Seniors
SSA Imposter Calls
The Social Security Administration warns of fake calls threatening to suspend benefits unless you pay.
Florida Seniors Warned of Grandparent Scams
Grandparent Scams
Florida Attorney General warns that scammers pretend to be grandchildren in trouble to steal money from seniors.
What to Do If Something Seems Wrong
Follow these simple steps to stay safe
Stop
Do not click anything. Do not call any number shown on a pop-up or email.
Do Not Send Money
Never send gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Hang Up
If someone calls claiming to be from a company or the government and asks for money or personal information, hang up.
Verify Independently
Look up the real phone number of the company or agency and call them directly to check.
Talk to Someone You Trust
Call a family member, friend, or Trusted Tech Support LLC before taking any action.
Call Trusted Tech Support LLC
Not sure if something is a scam? We can help you check. Call us at 727-253-0034.
Current Scam Warnings
Active scam types targeting seniors right now
Fake Tech Support Pop-Up Scams
Scammers create fake pop-up warnings or call pretending to be from Microsoft or Apple. They claim your computer has a virus and ask for remote access or payment for 'repairs.'
Who is targeted
Seniors who use computers or smartphones
What to do
Do not call any phone number from a pop-up warning. Never give remote access to your device to strangers. Close suspicious pop-ups and contact a trusted tech support provider if unsure.
Phishing Emails Impersonating Trusted Companies
Scammers send emails pretending to be from Microsoft, PayPal, Amazon, banks, or Medicare. These emails try to trick you into clicking links or giving out personal information.
Who is targeted
Seniors who use email
What to do
Do not click on links or download attachments from unexpected emails. Verify the sender by contacting the company directly using an official phone number. Delete suspicious emails immediately.
Government and SSA Impersonation Calls
Scammers call or email pretending to be from the IRS, Social Security, or other government agencies. They may threaten arrest or loss of benefits unless you pay or share personal information.
Who is targeted
Anyone with a phone or email
What to do
Hang up on suspicious calls claiming to be from the government. Never give out your Social Security number or bank details over the phone. Contact the agency directly using official contact information.
AI Voice Cloning and Deepfake Scams
Scammers use artificial intelligence to clone voices or create fake videos of loved ones. They may call pretending to be a family member in distress and ask for money urgently.
Who is targeted
Seniors with phone or internet access
What to do
Be cautious if you receive urgent calls for money, even if the voice sounds familiar. Hang up and call your family member directly using a known number. Do not send money or share personal information unless you verify the request.
Fake Refund and Overpayment Scams
Scammers claim you are owed a refund or that you were overpaid. They may ask for your bank information or trick you into sending money back.
Who is targeted
Seniors who use online banking or shop online
What to do
Do not provide bank or credit card information to unknown callers. Be skeptical of unexpected refund offers. Contact your bank or the company directly using official contact details.
Grandparent and Family Emergency Scams
Scammers pretend to be a grandchild or relative in trouble, often claiming to need money for bail, medical bills, or travel. They may urge you to keep it a secret.
Who is targeted
Seniors with grandchildren or family
What to do
Verify the caller's identity by asking questions only your family would know. Call your family member directly using their usual number. Never send money or gift cards to someone you can't confirm is your relative.
Fake Virus and Security Warning Pop-Ups
Pop-ups may appear on your computer claiming you have a virus and urging you to call a number or click a link. These are fake and aim to steal your money or information.
Who is targeted
Seniors who use computers or tablets
What to do
Do not call numbers or click links in pop-up warnings. Close your browser or restart your device. Seek help from a trusted tech support provider if unsure.
Investment and Cryptocurrency Scam Targeting Seniors
Scammers offer fake investment opportunities, often involving cryptocurrency, promising high returns. They may use fake websites or pressure you to act quickly.
Who is targeted
Seniors interested in investing or cryptocurrency
What to do
Be wary of unsolicited investment offers, especially those promising high returns. Research any investment and consult a trusted financial advisor. Never send money or share financial information with unknown people.
Not Sure If Something Is a Scam?
If you received a suspicious pop-up, email, phone call, or text message, do not respond to it. Trusted Tech Support LLC can help you verify if it is real and protect your devices.
Information sourced from government and trusted consumer-protection organizations including the FTC, FBI, AARP, CISA, and Florida state agencies.