{"id":17776,"date":"2026-06-12T15:45:44","date_gmt":"2026-06-12T15:45:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/?p=17776"},"modified":"2026-06-08T15:48:26","modified_gmt":"2026-06-08T15:48:26","slug":"protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Protecting Seniors from Scams in New Bern, NC: A Caregiver\u2019s Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Senior scams aren\u2019t just annoying phone calls or odd emails anymore\u2014they\u2019re slick, convincing, and, frankly, scary. In New Bern and across the country, older adults are often seen as \u201ceasy targets,\u201d and scammers are more than happy to take advantage of that perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That said, we\u2019re not powerless. With some practical know\u2011how, a bit of skepticism, and steady support from family and trusted helpers like us at <strong>Always Best Care of New Bern<\/strong>, your loved one can stay one step ahead of those bad actors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What You Will Learn:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why seniors are commonly targeted by scammers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The most common scams affecting older adults today.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Key warning signs of fraud and exploitation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Practical steps families can take to prevent scams.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/418-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17779\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/418-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/418-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/418-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/418.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#Why_Seniors_Are_in_the_Crosshairs\" title=\"Why Seniors Are in the Crosshairs\">Why Seniors Are in the Crosshairs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#Common_Types_of_Scams_Affecting_Seniors\" title=\"Common Types of Scams Affecting Seniors\">Common Types of Scams Affecting Seniors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#Warning_Signs_of_Senior_Scams\" title=\"Warning Signs of Senior Scams\">Warning Signs of Senior Scams<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#How_Families_in_New_Bern_Can_Help_Protect_Loved_Ones\" title=\"How Families in New Bern Can Help Protect Loved Ones\">How Families in New Bern Can Help Protect Loved Ones<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#The_Role_of_In%E2%80%91Home_Care_in_Scam_Prevention\" title=\"The Role of In\u2011Home Care in Scam Prevention\">The Role of In\u2011Home Care in Scam Prevention<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#What_to_Do_If_You_Suspect_a_Scam\" title=\"What to Do If You Suspect a Scam\">What to Do If You Suspect a Scam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#FAQs_About_Senior_Scams_in_New_Bern\" title=\"FAQs About Senior Scams in New Bern\">FAQs About Senior Scams in New Bern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-in-new-bern-nc-a-caregivers-guide\/#Help_Your_Loved_One_Stay_Safe_Supported_and_Protected\" title=\"Help Your Loved One Stay Safe, Supported, and Protected\">Help Your Loved One Stay Safe, Supported, and Protected<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Seniors_Are_in_the_Crosshairs\"><\/span><strong>Why Seniors Are in the Crosshairs<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-fraud\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scammers tend to zero in on older adults<\/a> because it can feel like shooting fish in a barrel to them. They know many seniors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Are naturally polite and trusting<\/strong>, even with strangers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Have savings, retirement funds, or steady income<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>May live alone<\/strong> or have less day\u2011to\u2011day social contact<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aren\u2019t as familiar with digital tricks<\/strong>, like fake websites or spoofed phone numbers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Put all that together, and crooks see an opportunity to build fake trust, spin a convincing story, and then push for money or personal information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/419-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17780\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/419-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/419-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/419-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/419.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Types_of_Scams_Affecting_Seniors\"><\/span><strong>Common Types of Scams Affecting Seniors<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers are creative\u2014sometimes disturbingly so. Still, many senior scams follow a few familiar playbooks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Phone Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A caller might pretend to be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A government agency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A utility company<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A bank<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Or even a grandchild \u201cin trouble\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They crank up the pressure, claim there\u2019s a crisis, and insist your loved one has to act <em>right now<\/em>\u2014usually by paying or giving up sensitive information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/420-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17781\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/420-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/420-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/420-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/420.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Email and Phishing Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s where things get techy. Messages may look like they\u2019re from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A bank<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Medicare or a clinic<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A well\u2011known store or delivery service<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They often include a link that goes straight to a fake site designed to grab passwords, Social Security numbers, or account details. One wrong click, and the door\u2019s wide open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The pitch sounds like a dream:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cYou\u2019ve won a huge prize! You just need to pay fees or taxes to claim it!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Except there is no prize. The only thing that\u2019s real is the money your loved one is being pushed to send.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Romance Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers may spend weeks\u2014or months\u2014building an online relationship. Once there\u2019s trust and emotional attachment, the story starts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cI\u2019m stuck overseas.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cI need help with a medical bill.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cMy account\u2019s frozen.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Money requests follow, often in increasing amounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tech Support Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ve probably seen those pop\u2011ups:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cWarning! Your computer is infected!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Or your loved one might receive a call from someone claiming to be \u201ctech support.\u201d They:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask for <strong>remote access<\/strong> to the computer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Push for <strong>payment<\/strong> to \u201cfix\u201d a problem that doesn\u2019t exist<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once they\u2019re in, they can grab personal data or install harmful software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/421-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17782\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/421-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/421-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/421-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/421.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Warning_Signs_of_Senior_Scams\"><\/span><strong>Warning Signs of Senior Scams<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most scams share some telltale red flags. If you spot these, it\u2019s time to hit the brakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Common Red Flags<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Watch for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Demands for immediate payment<\/strong> or \u201curgent\u201d decisions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Requests to pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unsolicited calls, emails, or texts<\/strong> asking for personal or banking details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Messages that stir up fear, panic, or guilt<\/strong> to force quick action<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Instructions to keep the transaction secret<\/strong> from family or friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your loved one feels rushed, threatened, or pushed to keep quiet, that\u2019s a huge sign something isn\u2019t right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/423-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17784\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/423-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/423-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/423-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/423.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Families_in_New_Bern_Can_Help_Protect_Loved_Ones\"><\/span><strong>How Families in New Bern Can Help Protect Loved Ones<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We don\u2019t have to sit on our hands and hope for the best. A few consistent habits can make scams much less likely to succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Practical Steps for Families<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Talk openly about scams.<\/strong> Share real\u2011world examples and news stories.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Agree on a \u201cpause and check\u201d rule.<\/strong> No big payments or sharing personal info without checking with a trusted person first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Watch financial accounts.<\/strong> Look for unusual withdrawals or new accounts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Set up protections.<\/strong> Use call\u2011blocking, voicemail screening, and spam filters.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Encourage questions.<\/strong> Make it crystal clear your loved one won\u2019t be judged for asking, \u201cDoes this sound right to you?\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to create a safe space where your loved one doesn\u2019t feel silly for being cautious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Role_of_In%E2%80%91Home_Care_in_Scam_Prevention\"><\/span><strong>The Role of In\u2011Home Care in Scam Prevention<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consistent in\u2011home support can do more than help with daily tasks\u2014it can also act as an extra barrier against scammers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At <strong>Always Best Care of New Bern<\/strong>, we see and hear a lot in the course of a regular day with clients. That puts us in a good position to notice when something seems off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How We Help Watch for Senior Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Screen calls and unexpected visitors<\/strong>, so someone doesn\u2019t get pressured on the spot<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spot changes in mood or money worries<\/strong>, which can be signs of ongoing exploitation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Offer companionship<\/strong>, which helps ease loneliness\u2014a big risk factor for romance and phone scams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Encourage regular check\u2011ins with family<\/strong>, especially before big financial decisions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By staying present and observant, we help create a safer, more connected environment at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/422-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17783\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/422-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/422-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/422-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/422.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Do_If_You_Suspect_a_Scam\"><\/span><strong>What to Do If You Suspect a Scam<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you think a loved one has been targeted\u2014or already taken in\u2014don\u2019t shrug it off. Quick action can keep a bad situation from getting worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Steps to Take<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Contact the bank or credit card company right away.<\/strong> Ask about freezing the account, disputing charges, and adding extra security.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Report the scam<\/strong> to local law enforcement and, when appropriate, adult protective services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep a close eye on accounts<\/strong> for additional suspicious activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Offer calm, steady support.<\/strong> Many seniors feel ashamed or embarrassed, and that shame can keep them quiet. A kind, non\u2011judgmental response makes it easier for them to tell the full story.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sooner the incident is reported, the better the chance of limiting damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_About_Senior_Scams_in_New_Bern\"><\/span><strong>FAQs About Senior Scams in New Bern<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: How can I talk to my loved one about senior scams without scaring them?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Start by framing it as \u201csomething that\u2019s happening to a lot of people,\u201d not something they\u2019ve done wrong. Share a news story or example, then ask, \u201cHas anything like this ever happened to you?\u201d Keep the tone calm and conversational.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: What\u2019s the safest rule for unexpected calls asking for money or information?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: A simple guideline is: <em>Hang up and call back using a trusted number.<\/em> For example, if \u201cthe bank\u201d calls, your loved one should hang up and dial the number on their card or statement instead of the number that called.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: Are online scams really that common for seniors?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Yes. As more services move online, scammers are targeting older adults with fake websites, emails, and text messages that look legitimate. Even someone who uses the internet only occasionally can be at risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: How can Always Best Care of New Bern support scam prevention?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/in-home-care\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">We can help by screening calls<\/a>, noticing unusual behavior, encouraging open communication with family, and spotting patterns that might suggest someone is being pressured or misled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: What\u2019s one \u201cgolden rule\u201d my loved one can follow to stay safer?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: If anyone asks for payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency, it\u2019s almost certainly a scam. Tell your loved one: \u201cIf they want gift cards, hang up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/416-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17777\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/416-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/416-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/416-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/416.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Help_Your_Loved_One_Stay_Safe_Supported_and_Protected\"><\/span><strong>Help Your Loved One Stay Safe, Supported, and Protected<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Senior scams are getting more polished, but they\u2019re not unstoppable. With awareness, regular conversations, and practical safeguards, families in New Bern can dramatically lower the chances that a loved one gets caught up in a costly scheme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At <strong>Always Best Care of New Bern<\/strong>, we\u2019re here to walk alongside you\u2014keeping an eye out for warning signs, offering companionship, and supporting safer choices every day at home. If you feel your loved one could use extra support and another set of watchful eyes, reach out to us to schedule a care consultation and learn how we can help protect their safety, independence, and peace of mind. <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Always Best Care of New Bern<\/a> at (252) 669-0023 to learn more and schedule your free consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/Markdown-June-2_-Protecting-Seniors-from-Scams-in-New-Bern-NC_-A-Caregivers-Guide.docx.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/Markdown-June-2_-Protecting-Seniors-from-Scams-in-New-Bern-NC_-A-Caregivers-Guide.docx.pdf\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Link to the markdown version of this blog. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Senior scams aren\u2019t just annoying phone calls or odd emails anymore\u2014they\u2019re slick, convincing, and, frankly, scary. In New Bern and across the country, older adults are often seen as \u201ceasy targets,\u201d and scammers are more than happy to take advantage of that perception. That said, we\u2019re not powerless. With some practical know\u2011how, a bit of&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":17778,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[166],"tags":[370,371,372,373,374,375,376,377,378,379,380],"class_list":["post-17776","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tips"],"acf":{"background_image_blog_posts":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17776","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17776"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17776\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17785,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17776\/revisions\/17785"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17778"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17776"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17776"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17776"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}