How to Help Your Aging Parent Avoid Scams: Protecting Seniors Under California Law

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, and unfortunately, seniors are among the most vulnerable targets. Every year, thousands of older adults fall victim to fraud, losing millions of dollars to deceptive schemes. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), seniors lost over $1.6 billion to scams in 2023 alone, with the median reported loss for victims over 70 reaching $800 per incident—a significantly higher loss than younger age groups.

In California, where over six million residents are aged 65 and older, protecting seniors from financial exploitation is a serious concern. Attorney Susan B. Geffen, a trusted advocate for elder law in California, shares essential strategies to safeguard aging parents from scams and highlights how California laws help protect senior citizens from financial fraud and elder abuse.

Common Scams Targeting Seniors in California

Scammers often prey on seniors because they may be more trusting, less familiar with digital fraud tactics, or more likely to have savings. Some of the most common scams affecting seniors in California include:

• Medicare and health insurance scams – Fraudsters impersonate Medicare representatives to steal personal and financial information.
• Grandparent scams – Scammers pose as a grandchild in distress, claiming they need emergency funds.
• Tech support scams – Seniors receive fake warnings about computer viruses and are tricked into paying for unnecessary software or giving remote access to scammers.
• IRS and government impersonation scams – Callers claim to be from the IRS or Social Security Administration, threatening fines or legal action unless immediate payment is made.
• Home repair scams – Fraudulent contractors pressure seniors into paying for unnecessary or incomplete home repairs.
• Investment fraud – Scammers offer “risk-free” investment opportunities that drain savings accounts.
• Romance scams – Fake online relationships trick seniors into sending money to someone they’ve never met in person.

How California Law Protects Seniors from Scams

California has strong elder abuse protection laws that make financial fraud against seniors a serious crime. The California Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA) protects adults aged 65 and older from financial, physical, and emotional abuse. Under California Penal Code §368, financial abuse of an elder can lead to felony charges, fines, and imprisonment.

Additionally, under the California Consumer Protection Act (CCPA), seniors have legal rights to protect their personal data from fraudulent use. If a scam involves identity theft, victims can seek relief under California’s Identity Theft Law (Civil Code §1798.93), which allows them to recover stolen funds.

Financial institutions in California are also required to report suspected financial elder abuse. If a bank notices unusual transactions or a senior being coerced into withdrawing large sums, they must alert Adult Protective Services (APS) or law enforcement.

How to Protect Your Aging Parent from Scammers

The best way to help your aging parent avoid scams is through education, awareness, and proactive safeguards. Here are key steps to prevent fraud:

1. Educate Them on Common Scams

Talk to your parent about the latest fraud tactics. Let them know that:

• The IRS, Social Security, and Medicare will never call or email asking for personal information or payment.
• No legitimate agency will demand payment in gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
• They should never click on unknown links in emails or texts claiming to be from a government agency or bank.

2. Monitor Financial Activity

Encourage your parent to:

• Review their bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorized charges.
• Sign up for fraud alerts through their bank or credit card provider.
• Check their credit report annually through AnnualCreditReport.com, a federally authorized site.

3. Set Up Legal Protections

A durable power of attorney (POA) allows a trusted family member to oversee financial transactions and step in if fraud occurs. Attorney Susan Geffen helps families set up legal safeguards to protect seniors from financial exploitation.

4. Reduce Unsolicited Contact

Seniors can limit unwanted sales calls and spam mail by:

• Registering their phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov.
• Opting out of pre-approved credit offers at optoutprescreen.com.

5. Verify Home Repair and Investment Offers

If your parent is approached by someone offering home repairs or investment opportunities:

• Verify the company’s California contractor license at cslb.ca.gov.
• Research investment firms through the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (dfpi.ca.gov).
• Never allow a contractor or salesperson inside the home without a background check.

6. Teach Safe Online Practices

Ensure your parent uses strong, unique passwords for banking and email accounts. Set up two-factor authentication on their financial accounts to add an extra layer of security.

7. Be Cautious with Caregivers and Friends

Unfortunately, elder financial abuse often comes from family members, caregivers, or acquaintances. Keep an eye out for sudden changes in your parent’s financial situation, new “friends” asking for money, or unexplained withdrawals.

What to Do If Your Parent Has Been Scammed

If you suspect your parent has been scammed, act quickly to minimize the damage:

1. Report the fraud – File a report with the California Attorney General’s Office at oag.ca.gov, the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and local law enforcement.
2. Contact their bank – Freeze accounts and dispute fraudulent transactions.
3. Place a fraud alert on their credit report – Contact one of the major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion) to prevent identity theft.
4. Consult an elder law attorney – Conservatorship Attorney Susan B. Geffen specializes in protecting seniors from financial abuse and can help recover lost assets and prevent future fraud.

Protect Your Aging Parent with Legal Guidance

Scammers are relentless, but being proactive can prevent financial disaster. By staying informed, monitoring financial activity, and setting up legal protections, you can help your aging parent avoid becoming a victim.

If you need assistance with elder law, financial abuse prevention, or setting up legal safeguards like a power of attorney, contact Attorney Susan B. Geffen today. With extensive experience in California elder law, Susan Geffen is dedicated to protecting seniors and their families from fraud and financial exploitation.

Schedule a consultation today to ensure your aging parent’s financial safety and peace of mind.