Press release from Operation Senior Shield
In Tallahassee, Fla., as families reunite and gear up for another school year, there’s an unfortunate rise in scam activities targeting older adults. Often, these con artists capitalize on the goodwill of grandparents who are eager to assist their loved ones, manipulating their emotions by creating a false sense of urgency and fear.
Fraudsters may disguise themselves as grandchildren, relatives, or even friends, reaching out with fabricated stories. Common tactics include messages from supposed grandchildren claiming to have a “new phone number” or requests for financial support to cover school-related costs, emergencies, or unforeseen expenses.
The essence of these scams is to elicit a rapid response, preventing potential victims from taking the time necessary to verify the authenticity of the request.
These criminals often resort to several deceitful methods, such as:
- Claim to be a grandchild or family member in trouble
- Send texts from an unfamiliar number saying, “I got a new phone”
- Ask for gift cards, payment apps, or money transfers
- Request help paying for books, tuition, or school supplies
- Ask you to keep the request secret from other family members
The goal is often to exploit trust and emotions before victims recognize the warning signs.
Red Flags
- Unexpected texts or calls claiming to be a loved one
- Requests for money that create urgency
- Messages asking you not to tell anyone
- Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps
- Excuses for why they cannot speak on the phone
Tips to Protect Yourself
- Pause before sending money or gift cards
- Call your loved one directly using a trusted phone number
- Verify requests with another family member if possible
- Be cautious of messages from unfamiliar numbers
- Never let urgency prevent you from asking questions
How to Report Concerns or Get Help
Reporting suspicious activity may help protect other older adults from financial exploitation and fraud.
- Federal Trade Commission Fraud Reporting: ReportFraud.gov
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov
- Identity Theft Resource Center: 888-400-5530 or idtheftcenter.org
- Contact your local law enforcement agency if you believe money has already been sent or a loved one may be involved in an emergency scam
Stay Informed
Operation Senior Shield (OSS) provides fraud alerts, scam prevention tips, and consumer protection information to help older adults across Florida recognize warning signs and avoid financial exploitation. Please continue sharing trusted fraud prevention information with friends, family members, caregivers, and loved ones.
Family connections are important, and taking a moment to verify unexpected requests can help protect the people and relationships that matter most. Staying informed through Operation Senior Shield can help you recognize warning signs, avoid scams, and help protect older adults across Florida. Your willingness to share trusted information and talk openly about scams can help safeguard loved ones and strengthen communities throughout our state.