Summer is a time for vacations, family gatherings, outdoor events, and spending more time with the people we love. Unfortunately, scammers do not take the summer off.
Scams and financial exploitation can happen to anyone. However, older adults are often targeted because scammers may assume they have savings, retirement accounts, investments, or other valuable assets.
The best defense is awareness. Understanding common scams and knowing what warning signs to look for can help you and your loved ones recognize fraud before it causes serious financial or emotional harm.
Common Scams to Watch Out For This Summer
Travel and Vacation Rental Scams
Summer travel creates opportunities for scammers to take advantage of people searching for flights, hotels, vacation homes, and travel deals.
A scammer may advertise a property that does not actually exist or create a fake listing that appears to be legitimate. They may pressure you to send payment quickly or ask you to pay through an unusual method.
Be cautious if:
- A vacation rental is significantly cheaper than similar properties
- The person asks you to pay outside of a trusted booking platform
- You are pressured to make an immediate payment
- The listing has few reviews or suspiciously copied photos
- The owner refuses to communicate through the platform
If a deal seems too good to be true, take time to verify the listing before sending money.
Grandparent and Family Emergency Scams
In a grandparent scam, someone may call or message pretending to be a grandchild or another family member in trouble.
The scammer may claim they have been arrested, hospitalized, stranded, or involved in an emergency. They may then ask for money immediately and insist that you do not tell anyone else.
Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prevent victims from taking time to think or verify the story.
If you receive an unexpected emergency request for money, contact your family member directly using a phone number you already know. Do not rely solely on the number or contact information provided in the suspicious message.
Fake Charity Scams
Summer often brings community events, fundraising campaigns, and charitable causes. Unfortunately, scammers may use fake charities or impersonate legitimate organizations to collect money.
Before donating, research the organization independently. Be cautious if someone pressures you to donate immediately or asks for payment through an unusual method.
If you are unsure whether a charity is legitimate, take time to verify it before donating.
Phishing Emails and Text Messages
Scammers may send messages pretending to be banks, delivery companies, government agencies, or other familiar organizations.
The message may claim that:
- Your account has been compromised
- You have an unpaid bill
- A package cannot be delivered
- You must verify personal information
- You need to click a link immediately
These messages are designed to make you panic and act quickly.
Avoid clicking suspicious links or providing sensitive information in response to an unexpected message. Instead, contact the organization directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate.
Why Scammers Use Urgency
One of the most common warning signs of a scam is pressure.
Scammers often want you to act before you have time to:
- Think through the situation
- Contact a family member
- Verify the information
- Speak with your bank
- Ask someone you trust for help
A legitimate organization or person should not need to pressure you into making an immediate financial decision.
When something feels urgent, pause.
Taking a few minutes to verify a situation can prevent significant financial loss.
How Families Can Help Protect Loved Ones
Protecting someone from scams does not mean taking away their independence. In many cases, the best approach is to create an open environment where family members feel comfortable asking questions.
Consider talking with your loved ones about:
- Common scams targeting older adults
- How to respond to suspicious calls, emails, and texts
- Who they can contact if they are unsure about a financial request
- The importance of not sharing passwords or sensitive information
- What to do if they believe they may have been scammed
The goal is not to make someone feel embarrassed for asking questions. Scammers are skilled at manipulating people, and anyone can be targeted.
What If You Suspect Financial Exploitation?
If you believe a loved one may be experiencing financial exploitation, take the situation seriously.
Warning signs may include:
- Unexplained withdrawals or transfers
- New “friends” who suddenly become involved in financial matters
- Unpaid bills despite having sufficient income
- Unusual changes to estate planning documents
- A loved one becoming secretive about finances
- Repeated requests for money from someone they met online
- Pressure to change a will, trust, or beneficiary designation
If you notice something concerning, document what you have observed and consider seeking advice from appropriate professionals.
In some situations, an estate planning or elder law attorney may also be able to help families understand their legal options and evaluate whether additional protections may be appropriate.
Prevention Starts with Awareness
Scammers are constantly changing their tactics, but many scams rely on the same basic strategies: fear, urgency, secrecy, and trust.
When you or a loved one receives an unexpected request for money or personal information, remember:
Stop. Pause. Verify.
Do not allow someone else to pressure you into making a financial decision before you have had time to think.
This summer, enjoy your time with family and friends—but keep an eye out for the warning signs of scams and financial exploitation. A few extra moments of caution could help protect you or someone you love from significant financial harm.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your power of attorney documents protect what matters most.
For more information on estate planning and elder law, visit our Resources page to explore previous blog articles, newsletters, and our informative webinar series.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every person’s circumstances are different. If you have concerns about financial exploitation, elder abuse, or your estate plan, consult with a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.
