Senior Scam and Suspicious Call Checker

Use this before you pay

This tool is for phone calls, texts, emails, mail, social media messages, pop-ups, and door-to-door offers that feel suspicious. It uses common red flags, such as pressure, secrecy, gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, fake government claims, fake Medicare calls, computer repair scams, and fake grant offers.

Real government agencies do not demand payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or payment app. They also do not ask you to keep a payment secret from family. If someone says you must act right now or lose benefits, stop and verify using an official phone number.

What to do if risk is high

• Hang up: Do not argue and do not press buttons.
• Do not pay: Do not buy gift cards or send money.
• Verify separately: Call the real agency, bank, Medicare, Social Security, or utility.
• Report it: Use ReportFraud or call 1-877-382-4357.

Who to call

If the scam involved Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE. If it involved Social Security, contact SSA directly. If money was sent, call your bank right away. If a loved one is being pressured, contact local adult protective services through your state or call the Eldercare Locator.

Reality checks

Scammers often sound kind, official, or urgent. They may know your name, address, or some personal details. That does not prove they are real. A safe answer is: “I do not make payments or share personal information by phone. I will call the official office myself.”