In today's world, senior tax scams have become increasingly prevalent and sophisticated, especially during filing season. It is crucial for family caregivers to have the knowledge and resources to protect their golden-agers from such threats.
The Prevalence of Revenue Rip-Offs
Sadly, these fraudulent acts affecting older retirees are alarmingly common. Data reveals that every year, thousands of older adults fall victim, resulting in substantial financial and emotional stress. The reasons for being targeted vary, but scammers primarily exploit their trusting nature, limited knowledge of technology and fiscal laws, or isolation.
Common Tactics Used by Con Artists
These fraudulent schemes usually involve impersonators posing as IRS agents via phone calls, emails, or text messages. These criminals employ fear and manipulation, often threatening legal action, arrest, or penalties to coerce older kin into sharing personal resources. They may also offer fake tax refunds as bait or use highly technical or confusing language to hoodwink older relatives into compliance.
Indications of Potential Tax Fraud
The first line of defense is recognizing the warning signs of a possible scam. Be wary of unsolicited contact from the authorities. Genuine IRS communication is typically initiated by regular mail. Furthermore, the IRS will never demand immediate payment, solicit payment via gift card or wire transfer, or ask for credit card numbers over the phone. Threats of arrest or legal action for non-payment are also tell-tale signs of a scam.
Steps to Take if a Senior Tax Scam is Suspected
If you suspect a scam targeting older retirees, promptly protect your loved one's private and monetary info. Consider following these steps to ensure their security:
- Act immediately and do not engage with the perpetrator.
- Report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) and the Federal Trade Commission.
- Safeguard personal and financial information vigilantly and remind more mature relatives never to implicitly share sensitive data over the phone, email, or with anyone they do not trust.
- If your elderly parent shares private information, lock down their accounts immediately.
- Contact their bank and ask for help to put a fraud alert on the account or shut it down for illicit activity.
- If funds are taken by a scammer, acting fast can increase the chances of recovering some of those funds with the help of banks and credit card companies.
Get Help Caring for Older Adults
At Senior Helpers Seal Beach, Los Alamitos, we understand how daunting and stressful it can be to constantly worry about your golden-ager's security. Our companionship services can help elderly family members feel less lonely and take care of their daily care tasks. If you're in Cypress, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Long Beach, or Hawaiian Gardens, do not hesitate to contact Senior Helpers Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, for more information about how we can improve your loved one's quality of life.