Schuyler County Attorney Warns Seniors of Holiday Scams Targeting Older Adults (Common Holiday Scams and How to Avoid Them)

Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman is urging senior citizens to stay vigilant against a likely surge in scams during the holiday season, when fraudsters exploit seasonal generosity and family-focused emotions to target vulnerable older adults.

 "Scammers don't take a holiday break," Getman said. "They ramp up efforts when emotions run high, using the spirit of giving against us. Our seniors deserve to enjoy the season without fear."

According to Getman, scammers often prey on seniors' trust, isolation or limited familiarity with technology, with nationwide losses to elder fraud topping $3.4 billion in 2023 and continuing to rise

 Getman outlined several widespread tactics, drawing from federal data and state alerts:

• Grandparent Scams: Fraudsters pose as a distressed grandchild in trouble — such as arrested abroad or in an accident — urging immediate wire transfers or gift card purchases. They may use AI-generated voices for realism. To avoid: Hang up and call the relative directly using a known number. Never send money to unsolicited callers.
• Fake Charity Solicitations: Con artists impersonate legitimate nonprofits, often via phone or door-to-door, requesting donations for holiday causes. They pressure for quick payments via untraceable methods like cryptocurrency or prepaid cards. To avoid: Verify charities through sites like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau before giving. Legitimate organizations don't demand instant payment over the phone.
• 
  Phony Online Shopping Deals: Bogus websites or social media ads offer steep discounts on popular gifts, stealing credit card info or delivering nothing. Lookalike stores mimic trusted retailers. To avoid: Shop only on secure, familiar sites with "https://" and check reviews. Use credit cards for purchases, which offer better fraud protection than debit cards.
• Government Impersonation Frauds: Callers claiming to be from the IRS, Social Security or Medicare demand payment for fabricated "issues," like unpaid taxes or benefit updates, often tied to holiday "relief" programs. To avoid: Government agencies never request payment via gift cards or wire. Contact them directly through official channels.
• Tech Support or Gift Card Scams: Pop-up alerts or calls warn of computer viruses, directing seniors to buy gift cards for "fixes," or twist holiday shopping into "secret shopper" gigs requiring card purchases. To avoid: Don't click unsolicited links or share codes. Legitimate support comes from you initiating contact.
• Fake Delivery Notifications:  Scammers send emails or texts claiming a package is delayed, often with a link to pay a fee or provide personal information. To avoid: Always get tracking numbers for items you buy online, so you can make sure they have been shipped and can follow the delivery process.

Getman emphasized simple safeguards to avoid scams:

• ·         Be particularly vigilant on social media during the holiday season.
• ·         If it seems to good to be true, it probably is.
• ·         Discuss potential scams with family.
• ·         Resist high-pressure tactics.
• ·         Report suspicions immediately. 

Getman urges those who believe they are victims of a scam to contact the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office at 607-535-8222 or in an emergency dial 911. Outside of Schuyler County, complaints can be filed with any local law enforcement agency or the New York State Consumer Frauds Bureau by calling 1-800-771-7755.

 "Education is our best defense — let's arm our seniors with knowledge,” he said.

For additional resources to protect rights and property, please visit the county attorney’s website at: https://www.schuylercounty.us/1154/Free-Publications-to-Protect-Your-Rights