In many cultures worldwide, elderly members of society are honored and respected for their wisdom and life experiences. While this is true for many in the United States, unfortunately, some take advantage of the vulnerability of older individuals, with many over the age of 65 at risk of identity theft scams. As such, if you have an older loved one, understanding the common tactics used to scam them and the steps to take if you believe they are a victim is critical. Luckily, the following blog explores what you should know about these matters and why it’s in your best interest to connect with a senior identity theft lawyer in San Diego to explore your legal options.
Why Are Seniors Often Victims of Identity Theft?
While anyone can fall victim to identity theft, senior citizens are disproportionately targeted by identity thieves in California and across the United States. These individuals often have more financial stability and predictable income sources. Unfortunately, these factors, when combined with the fact that many older adults are more trusting and unfamiliar with advancements in technology, can increase the likelihood of identity theft.
Financial and Credit Related Factors
- Many seniors build strong credit scores over decades
- Seniors often do not monitor their credit scores due to limited borrowing
- Retirement savings, pensions, and government programs create a predictable income
- Lower credit utilization can lead to delays in the discovery of fraud
Technology and Social Vulnerabilities
- Less familiarity with phishing scams and spoofed phone numbers
- Greater trust in authority figures and callers who sound “official”
- Increased social isolation, resulting in easier emotional manipulation
- Reliance on landlines, which are commonly targeted by “robocall” scams
It’s important to understand that, under California Penal Code 368, financial abuse and exploitation of seniors is a criminal offense.
What Identity Theft Scams Are Used Against Older Adults in California?
Unfortunately, there are several scams that commonly impact older adults. Generally, phone call scams are among the most common, and callers often attempt to exploit the emotions or fears of older adults.
Phone and Impersonation Scams
- Claiming a bank account has been compromised and requesting verification
- Posing as a child or grandchild in trouble
- Pretending to be a government official
- Pretending to be a lawyer or police officer
In these instances, scammers rely on confusing, threatening, scaring, or manipulating the older adult into complying with their orders to provide sensitive information like social security numbers, bank account information, or other personal details.
Romance and Emotional Manipulation Scams
- Creating fake online dating profiles to target widowed seniors
- Building a relationship before requesting money
- Gathering personal information to commit identity theft
Charity and Sweepstakes Scams
- Claiming the victim has won a prize but must pay “processing fees”
- Posing as a charitable organization
- Requesting Social Security numbers for “tax reporting”
What Is Synthetic Identity Theft and Why Does It Affect Seniors?
Synthetic identity theft occurs when a thief combines real personal information with fabricated details to create a new identity. Seniors are particularly vulnerable because their Social Security numbers may be used without immediate detection. Because this doesn’t always trigger immediate credit alerts, it can make detection difficult.
How Synthetic Identity Fraud Works
- A thief uses a real Social Security number
- Combines it with a fake name and birthdate
- Opens credit accounts gradually
- Builds credit history under this fake identity
- Defaults later, leaving the real Social Security number holder damaged
What Steps Can Seniors Take to Prevent Identity Theft?
Taking preventative measures is one of the most important steps to reduce the risk of identity theft and improve detection methods.
Credit Protection Measures
- Place a credit freeze with the major credit reporting bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion)
- Review credit reports on a regular basis
- Enroll in transaction alerts with banks and credit card companies
- Avoid storing Social Security cards in wallets and purses to avoid physical card theft
Communication and Verification Best Practices
- Never provide personal information during unsolicited calls
- Hand up and call the official numbers listed on government websites
- Use strong, unique passwords for financial accounts
- Utilize multi-factor authentication to secure accounts
What Should You Do if a Senior Becomes an Identity Theft Victim in California?
If a senior in San Diego County or anywhere in California becomes the victim of identity theft, taking the necessary steps can help reduce long-term financial harm.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Contact financial institutions immediately
- Place a fraud alert or credit freeze on credit accounts
- File a formal report with the FTC
- Report elder fraud to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Keep all documents related to the fraud
Contact Our San Diego Identity Theft Victim Law Firm
If you or a loved one believes you are the victim of identity theft, understanding your legal options and ways to reclaim your identity is critical. Unfortunately, recovering after identity theft can be complex, so it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from Barthel Legal. Our team is committed to helping those taken advantage of recover from this crime. Connect with us today to learn more.
