Fraud Detection: Recognizing Scams and How To Verify Legitimacy

We’ve all received that ‘urgent’ phone call or strange text message that feels just a little bit off. In recent years scam tactics have become more sophisticated, making it increasingly important to know how to handle potential scams. Here is our guide on how to recognize the red flags and verify legitimacy before sharing any information.

Common Scams Targeting Seniors in 2026

Scammers often rely on three things: urgency, fear, and isolation. Here are the top threats to watch for right now:

• The Grandparent Emergency: Verify phone calls that trigger an emotional, quick response. Scammers will pretend to be a grandchild in trouble (often using AI to mimic their voice) and say not to tell the rest of the family while asking for immediate bail or medical money.
• Government & Bank Impersonation: Scammers will act like official entities and claim your Social Security number has been suspended or that there is suspicious activity on your bank account. They will often ask you to move your money to a “safe” account to protect it.
• Tech Support Pop-ups: Watch out for messages suddenly appearing on your computer screen claiming there is a virus and providing a number to call. The scammers will act like technicians and ask for remote access to the computer to steal passwords.
• Unverified Contractor Scams: Only use vetted contractors; anyone can knock on the door offering a discounted roof repair or driveway sealing. Contracting scams demand payment upfront, but never finish the work.

Red Flags of a Scam

If you encounter any of the following, stop and hang up.

1. Requests for Unusual Payment: No legitimate business or government agency (including the IRS or Medicare) will ever ask you to pay via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
2. Extreme Urgency: Scammers want people to act before they have time to think. If they say “you must act now or you’ll be arrested,” it’s almost certainly a scam.
3. Requests for Personal Info: Your bank and the government already have your Social Security and account numbers. They will not suddenly call to “verify” the information.
4. The Secret: If a caller says not to tell family or friends about the transaction, they are trying to keep it a secret so no one can prevent the scam.

How to Verify Legitimacy

Before taking action, use these steps to ensure legitimacy:

• Hang Up: If your “bank” calls you, hang up. Find the official number on a recent statement and call them directly to verify it was actually them calling. 
• Use Trusted Networks: When you need a repair or a service at home, don’t hire the person who knocked on your door. Use a vetted network like the one provided by SeniorConcierge, where every partner is pre-screened for reliability.
• The “No-Call” Rule: If you didn’t initiate the contact, don’t provide the information.
• The Family Password: Establish a code word with family that can be used to verify who you’re speaking to.

How SeniorConcierge Helps You Stay Safe

At SeniorConcierge, we are dedicated to helping you stay protected from scams. Our members have access to:

• A Trusted Network of Partners: We help members book trusted St. Louis vendors from plumbers to landscapers. 
• Fraud Detection Tools: Our mobile app includes features designed to help you check for scams. 
• Live Concierge Support: Not sure if a call you received was real? You can call your SeniorConcierge team for assistance. We can help you verify the source or look into a service provider on your behalf.

Reporting a scam is a sign of strength and alertness. If you think you’ve been targeted, tell a family member or call your concierge.Are you a St. Louis senior looking for a safer way to manage your home and social life? Join SeniorConcierge today and gain access to concierge support, trusted partners, and social opportunities.