Elder fraud is a growing threat that targets older adults through scams, identity theft, and financial deception. Criminals often use phone calls, fake tech support, emails, or even romance scams to exploit trust and create urgency.
Being informed and proactive can make all the difference in protecting your aging loved ones.
š§ What to Know About Elder Fraud
From fake emergency calls involving a “grandchild in jail” to phony IRS messages or pop-up virus warnings, these scams can be both believable and emotionally manipulative.
Staying alert to unusual financial activity, encouraging open communication, and knowing when to intervene can help prevent major lossesāboth financial and emotional.
š Identity Protection Through MSU
Missouri State University offers Allstate Identity Protection Pro Plus to help guard against identity theft and fraud. This benefit includes monitoring, alerts, full-service restoration, and up to $1 million in reimbursement for stolen funds and expenses.
It also covers family members, including dependents under 26 and elder household membersāmaking it a powerful tool to help protect your loved ones.
š Learn more here: MSU Identity Protection Benefit; enroll during open enrollment (November 1 ā December 1).
š§ Elder Fraud Safety Roadmap
Allstateās Elder Fraud Safety Roadmap offers step-by-step guidance for families. Topics include:
- Recognizing red flags
- Talking to parents about fraud
- How to monitor accounts and credit
- When and how to step in
š Explore More from the Allstate Elder Fraud Center
Allstateās Elder Fraud Center provides an extensive collection of guides and tools. Here are direct links to featured articles:
- Elder fraud is on the rise: spot common scams
- Tips for caregivers: know the warning signs of elder fraud
- Taking care of your health after identity theft
- Tips for caregivers: how to talk about fraud with an older loved one
- Email safety tips for older adults and families
- What to know about identity theft after the loss of a loved one
- Scams targeting seniors on social media and how to stay a step ahead
- 3 ways to avoid phone scams
- Resources to help you stay informed
- Digital safety tips for seniors and caregivers
š§ Awareness Makes a Difference
The most powerful defense against fraud is awareness. Talk with your loved ones, review financial statements, and encourage questions if something feels āoff.ā Tools like MSUās identity protection benefit and the resources above can help you take control before a scam becomes a crisis.
š Stay Informed
- For more benefits news and resources, follow the HR Blog
- For health and wellness tips, follow the Wellness Blog
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