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Don’t Be Fooled: How to Identify and Avoid Scams in Westerville, OH as a Senior

Don’t Be Fooled: How to Identify and Avoid Scams in Westerville, OH as a Senior

Scammers are getting bolder, slicker, and a whole lot sneakier—especially with seniors in their sights. 

In Westerville, OH, it’s not uncommon to hear about someone receiving a call from a “grandchild” needing bail money or a tech support “agent” asking for access to a computer. 

And it’s heartbreaking. 

But here’s the truth: with the right know-how and a little support, seniors can stay sharp and scam-free. 

Staying safe doesn’t have to be scary—it just takes awareness, support, and a watchful eye.

Why are Seniors in Westerville Being Targeted?

Well, it’s no secret—seniors tend to be more trusting, polite, and, often, home during the day. That makes them an easy mark for phone scams, fake charity requests, and all sorts of fraud cooked up by people with nothing better to do than steal. 

Add in the fact that many seniors have retirement savings or pensions, and you’ve got a tempting target. But knowing this is half the battle.

The Usual Tricks: 5 Scams Seniors Should Watch Out For

It’s wild how many ways scammers try to sneak in. Some of the biggest tricks making the rounds include:

  • Medicare or insurance scams: “We just need to verify your card number…” Nope.
  • Fake tech support: A pop-up or call warns of a virus and asks for remote access.
  • The grandparent scam: Someone pretends to be a family member in trouble, needing money fast.
  • Romance scams: Fake online relationships that quickly turn into financial requests.
  • Phishing emails and texts: Lookalike messages from banks or the IRS, asking you to click a link or update your info.

Each one starts small, usually with urgency, fear, or flattery. And once they’ve got you talking, they’re halfway there. The trick? Don’t engage. Hang up, delete, walk away.

5 Red Flags That Mean “Scam Alert!”

  • Someone is pressuring you to act quickly or in secret: Scammers love urgency. “This is a limited-time offer,” or “Don’t tell anyone—we’ll get in trouble!” If someone’s pushing you to act now without giving you time to think or talk it over with a friend or family member, that’s a big red flag. Real organizations don’t operate in the shadows, and they’ll always give you time to ask questions.
  • Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards: No legitimate business or government agency will ever ask you to pay a fee or fine using gift cards. If someone says you need to run to the store and grab a card to “unlock your account” or “pay your taxes,” hang up immediately. It’s a scam tactic, plain and simple.
  • Unexpected calls from “government agencies”: Whether it’s someone pretending to be from the IRS, Medicare, or the Social Security office, be cautious. Government offices don’t randomly call people and threaten arrest or demand payment over the phone. If you’re unsure, hang up and call the agency’s official number directly, not the one they gave you.
  • Emails or texts with links or attachments you weren’t expecting: Got a message saying there’s a problem with your bank account or that a package couldn’t be delivered? Don’t click. Even if it looks legit, it could lead to a fake site designed to steal your personal info or install malware on your device. When in doubt, go directly to the company’s official website or call customer service.
  • Poor grammar, strange wording, or misspelled company names: Scam messages often come from overseas or are rushed out without proofreading. If something just doesn’t read right—like odd phrases, missing punctuation, or a weird company logo—it’s a sign you’re not dealing with who they say they are.

Encouraging Your Aging Parent to Accept Help

Talking about scams—and other sensitive topics—can be tricky. If your parent are fiercely independent, they may bristle at the idea that they need help watching out for fraud. But the truth is, even the savviest of us can get caught off guard. That’s why the conversation should come from a place of care, not control.

Start by asking questions:

  • “Hey Mom, have you been getting any weird phone calls lately?”
  • “Have you ever heard of this charity before?”
  • “Want me to help you double-check this email?”

Frame it as a team effort, not a lecture. You’re not taking away independence—you’re adding peace of mind. And hey, if we can be part of that support system, we’re happy to be a second set of eyes.

Local Support for Scam Awareness in Westerville, OH

You’re not alone in this. In fact, Westerville’s got some great resources to help seniors stay safe:

It helps to have someone nearby who knows what to watch out for.

FAQs

What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed?

First, don’t panic. Call someone you trust. Then contact your bank or credit card company to freeze or review your accounts. You can also file a report with the Ohio Attorney General’s office or your local police.

Can Always Best Care of Westerville help me spot scams?

Absolutely. Whether it’s helping sort mail, reviewing suspicious messages, or just having a caregiver nearby to talk things through, we’re here to support your safety.

How can I protect my parent from being targeted?

Talk openly. Offer to help screen calls or check financial statements together. Set up call-blocking devices or email filters. 

Ready to Stay Safe and Supported at Home? Let’s Talk.

Scams may be evolving, but so are we. Seniors in Westerville don’t have to face this stuff alone, because staying safe is a whole lot easier with someone in your corner. Whether it’s learning the signs, having tough conversations, or making sure there’s help around the house, it all matters. 

If you or a loved one could benefit from in-home care services, contact Always Best Care of Westerville at (614) 284-6764 for a care consultation. Stay informed, stay alert, and stay safe.


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