foxbusiness.com
· 2026-10-03
This is not an article about elder fraud or scams. It is a news report about a government policy announcement regarding Medicare payment assistance. I cannot provide a fraud summary for this content as it does not describe fraud, scams, or elder exploitation—it describes a legitimate government program distributing $90 checks to over 20 million Medicare enrollees to help offset Part B premiums.
naplespress.com
· 2026-10-02
Medicare scam calls have surged this summer, with scammers using AI-powered automated calls targeting seniors to steal Medicare and Social Security numbers for fraudulent claims and identity theft. The scams employ various tactics including offering free services, threatening to cancel coverage, or claiming refunds are due, with Medicare losing an estimated $60 billion annually to fraud and abuse. Legitimate Medicare will never initiate calls or request personal information—all real communications come by mail—and seniors should never provide Medicare or Social Security numbers to unsolicited callers.
aol.com
· 2026-10-02
This article is a product review comparing identity theft protection services rather than reporting on actual fraud incidents. It does not contain information about specific scams, victims, or dollar amounts lost to fraud—instead, it lists seven identity theft protection services with their features, coverage limits, and pricing tiers designed to help consumers prevent identity theft and fraud.
foxnews.com
· 2026-10-02
"Ghost students" using stolen or fabricated identities—sometimes created with AI—have been exploiting federal student aid programs by enrolling in colleges and collecting grants and loans intended for legitimate students, costing taxpayers millions of dollars. The Education Department reported saving nearly $200 million after implementing identity verification requirements in June, with estimates of over $1 billion in savings this cycle, while the Trump administration has suspended over 870,000 borrowers allegedly involved in COVID-era fraud. Fraud investigators warn students and parents to watch for red flags such as multiple applications with common information, as scammers target student aid programs because of historically weak controls.
fox5vegas.com
· 2026-10-02
Nevada's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit leads the nation with 75 convictions over three fiscal years, investigating healthcare providers who defraud Medicaid and handling elder abuse cases. In fiscal year 2025 alone, the unit conducted over 300 investigations resulting in 35 convictions, 25 indictments, and $18.5 million in recovered funds. The state is seeking new legislation to expand the unit's capacity to better protect taxpayers and patients from Medicaid fraud.
abajournal.com
· 2026-09-29
Attorney Timothy Mark Anderson, 67, of Iowa, pleaded guilty to Medicaid fraud and was sentenced to six months in federal prison for orchestrating a scheme where he sold luxury vehicles, including a 1961 Rolls-Royce Phantom V, to elderly clients at inflated prices to help them qualify for Medicaid benefits. The scheme involved the vehicles being "gifted" to heirs and resold back to Anderson at lower prices, resulting in $184,274.36 in restitution ordered to Iowa Medicaid and a $25,000 fine. In one documented case, an elderly couple purchased the Rolls-Royce for $186,000 as part of the fraud
consumer.ftc.gov
· 2026-09-28
During Open Enrollment, scammers create fraudulent websites and ads mimicking legitimate government health insurance sites like Healthcare.gov and Medicare.gov, using similar web addresses, official logos, and keywords to trick consumers into purchasing fake plans or exposing themselves to medical identity theft. Victims may unknowingly pay for counterfeit insurance or have their personal health information compromised through these deceptive practices. Consumers should report suspected health insurance scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, their state attorney general, or Medicare directly at 800-633-4227.
arstechnica.com
· 2026-09-25
The Trump administration's WISeR program, launched in January 2025, uses AI to require prior authorization for certain Medicare services for seniors in six states, but has experienced technical failures, excessive delays, and puzzling care denials that have caused patient suffering and prompted criticism from healthcare providers and lawmakers. Federal documents reveal the program was rushed with unprepared vendors—one automatically approving all requests to avoid backlogs, another unable to distinguish between Medicare parts, and a third denying 53% of authorization requests—while a Government Accountability Office review found the administration failed to follow proper legal procedures for implementation. Despite bipartisan concerns and calls to shut down the program, the administration continues moving forward with plans to expand WI
Payment App
broadandliberty.com
· 2026-09-24
Pennsylvania's elderly population, which comprises over one-quarter of the state's residents, lost over $215 million to scams in 2025 alone, according to FBI data. Common scams targeting seniors include romance and investment fraud, online shopping counterfeit schemes, phishing scams impersonating government agencies like Social Security and the IRS, and grandparent emergency scams. Scammers exploit seniors' vulnerability by using spoofed phone numbers, fake websites, and increasingly AI technology to deceive victims into divulging sensitive financial information or transferring funds.
ky3.com
· 2026-09-23
Multiple fall scams are currently circulating, including Medicare enrollment fraud, mail scams, romance scams, and contractor scams targeting homeowners planning fall projects. The article advises consumers to be cautious during Medicare enrollment season and to ask thorough questions before hiring contractors for home improvement work. Specific dollar amounts and victim details were not provided in this informational advisory piece.
abcnews.com
· 2026-09-23
The White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, chaired by Vice President JD Vance, announced the removal of 750,000 allegedly fraudulent ACA enrollments and is verifying an additional 419,000 individuals, claiming the effort will save $2.2 billion by preventing fraudulent enrollment of "phantom people" who signed up without their knowledge or eligibility. The task force alleges that brokers were incentivized to enroll ineligible individuals, with data suggesting over one-third of some enrollees never used their coverage. Democrats and healthcare advocacy groups criticized the move as a distraction that will worsen healthcare access during an ongoing coverage crisis.
mountain-news.com
· 2026-09-23
Inland Counties Legal Services representatives presented information on scams targeting older Americans, noting that seniors lose over $3 billion annually with those over 80 experiencing the highest median losses. The presentation covered multiple scam types including phone fraud, caller ID spoofing, phishing text messages, social media scams (which grew from $19 million in 2019 to $380 million in 2023), and tech support scams that stole $587.8 million from victims over 60 in 2022. Attorneys emphasized that many scams go unreported due to seniors' reluctance to admit victimization, and advised the audience to pause before responding to suspicious contacts, avoid clicking links, and
oag.ca.gov
· 2026-09-21
Maki Martinez-Gruninger pleaded guilty to fraudulently claiming to be an In-Home Support Services (IHSS) provider for a disabled family member and submitting false claims to California's Medi-Cal program over more than a decade, stealing $413,643.30 from the state. She was sentenced to two years in state prison for the felony conviction of Medi-Cal fraud. The case highlights how fraudsters exploit vulnerable populations and public health programs, with the discovery made in December 2019 when the actual caregiver uncovered the illegal scheme that began in 2007.
flvoicenews.com
· 2026-09-18
The House passed four bipartisan bills targeting senior fraud, including the GUARD Act (H.R. 2978) allowing state and local police to use federal grants to investigate elder financial fraud and "pig butchering" schemes involving cryptocurrency, which passed 414-7. Two additional bills would make permanent a Justice Department fraud division created under President Trump and require states to share records from federally funded programs like Medicaid with federal investigators to combat an estimated $245.7 billion in fraud since January 2025. All four bills now await Senate action.
alachuachronicle.com
· 2026-09-15
During Medicare Open Enrollment (beginning October 15), scammers impersonate Medicare representatives or licensed agents to target beneficiaries by using official-looking materials, promising unrealistic benefits, and pressuring them to quickly provide Medicare numbers or personal information through suspicious websites and advertisements. Red flags include unsolicited contact, requests for immediate enrollment decisions, and offers to reveal "new Medicare benefits" in exchange for personal data. Seniors can protect themselves by using free, unbiased counseling from Florida's SHINE Program and reporting suspected fraud to Medicare, the Florida Attorney General, or the FTC.
amac.us
· 2026-09-14
Patients using MyChart and other healthcare patient portals are being targeted by phishing emails and text messages designed to steal login credentials, with scammers also impersonating healthcare providers to trick users into downloading malware or revealing personal health information. While the MyChart system itself has not been breached, successful attacks could expose sensitive medical records, insurance details, and personal identifying information that criminals could use for medical identity theft, fraudulent insurance claims, or sale on the dark web. Patients are advised to access their accounts only through official apps and to avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages, even if they appear legitimate.
aarp.org
· 2026-09-14
I cannot provide a summary of this article because the content provided is only a navigation menu and website structure from AARP.org, not an actual article about Medicare mistakes or fraud. Please provide the full text of the article you'd like summarized.
fincrimecentral.com
· 2026-09-14
Six Nigerian nationals affiliated with the Black Axe organization were extradited from South Africa to the United States to face charges for defrauding over 100 victims of more than R100 million (approximately $6 million) between 2011 and 2021. The organized scheme involved online deception, identity theft, manipulated payment instructions, and international fund transfers routed from the United States through South African accounts. The defendants face conspiracy and wire fraud charges, with potential sentences of up to 20 years imprisonment.
dallasexpress.com
· 2026-09-14
Four North Texas boarding home operators were indicted in federal court for exploiting elderly and vulnerable residents through two separate fraud schemes: one involving the fraudulent sale of a 79-year-old woman's home for over $156,000, and another involving the theft of more than $50,000 in Social Security benefits from a deceased resident. Donella Locke, Suekya Whitney, and Shakoya Crenshaw face conspiracy and false statement charges in the first case, while Krystle Locke faces theft of government money and identity theft charges in the second case. The defendants allegedly used positions of trust and power of attorney to carry out the schemes involving unlicensed boarding homes.
bizpacreview.com
· 2026-09-12
The House is advancing three bills to combat federal and state fraud, including establishing an assistant attorney general position to lead DOJ fraud investigations and creating data-sharing requirements between state and federal governments. Fraudsters have stolen billions in taxpayer dollars from programs like SNAP and COVID-era assistance programs, with the White House Task Force identifying approximately $230 billion in suspected fraud and stopping about $55 billion in flagged payments.
oig.hhs.gov
· 2026-09-11
Susanne Kee and her daughter Bethanne Kee were sentenced to four and a half years in prison for operating a $6.6 million Medicaid fraud scheme through a Silver City afterschool program, where they stole children's identities, fabricated psychological diagnoses, and billed Medicaid for services never provided. In addition to their prison sentences, the pair was ordered to pay $6.6 million in restitution.
bizpacreview.com
· 2026-09-11
A Nigerian chieftain allegedly billed California's Medicaid program over $34 million through his home health agency, with billing revenue jumping from under $2 million annually (2018-2021) to $17 million in 2023. He allegedly used the fraudulently obtained funds to purchase luxury California real estate worth over $7 million and construct a palace in Nigeria, including a golden statue of himself. Fraud experts identified multiple red flags including extraordinarily high service volumes, failure to file mandatory disclosure forms, and unidentifiable employees, though no charges have been filed against the individual.
myvalleynews.com
· 2026-09-10
A California bill (AB 2624) introduced by Democratic Assemblymember Mia Bonta, whose husband is Attorney General Rob Bonta, could discourage independent investigations of government-funded organizations at a time when fraud is rampant—including a dismantled Los Angeles hospice fraud operation that stole $267 million and approximately 800 suspended Medicare providers accounting for $1.4 billion in spending. The legislation raises conflict-of-interest concerns because it could expose journalists and investigators to litigation for publishing information about service providers, potentially undermining the independent oversight necessary to catch fraud that government agencies sometimes miss or overlook.
scdailypress.com
· 2026-09-10
A mother-daughter pair, Susanne Kee (75) and Bethanne Kee (51), were sentenced to 4.5 years in prison for Medicaid fraud and identity theft committed through their Silver City after-school program, Kids in Need of Support Services, and ordered to pay $6.6 million in restitution. The scheme involved submitting fraudulent claims for nonexistent services, illegally using patients' Social Security numbers and Medicaid identifiers, and documenting false psychological disorders that could harm victims long-term. Both pleaded guilty to multiple counts including Medicaid fraud, conspiracy, and identity theft affecting children and adults.
nmdoj.gov
· 2026-09-09
Susanne Kee and her daughter Bethanne Kee were sentenced to four and a half years in prison for orchestrating a $6.6 million Medicaid fraud scheme through their Silver City afterschool program, where they stole children's identities, fabricated psychological diagnoses, and billed Medicaid for services never provided. Both pleaded guilty to multiple felonies including Medicaid fraud and 35 counts of identity theft. The defendants must also pay $6.6 million in restitution, comprising $1.6 million in criminal restitution and $4.9 million in civil penalties.
news5cleveland.com
· 2026-09-07
Experts warn that fall and winter months see a surge in fraud targeting seniors, holiday shoppers, and online buyers, with scammers particularly exploiting Medicare open enrollment in October and romance scams around the holidays. The FBI recommends consumers pause before purchasing and verify website addresses carefully, as legitimate-looking sites with slightly altered URLs are typically fraudulent. No specific dollar amounts or individual victims were mentioned in this warning about seasonal fraud trends.
gandernewsroom.com
· 2026-09-03
AI-generated deepfake videos impersonating celebrities like Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Steve Martin, and Bill Gates are being used in scams targeting seniors, with Michigan seniors reporting nearly $170 million in cybercrime losses in 2024. The scams proliferate on Meta platforms (Facebook and Instagram) through fraudulent ads directing victims to fake websites or connecting them with scammers posing as legitimate service representatives, with internal Meta documents indicating that approximately 10% of the company's advertising revenue comes from such scams. Experts attribute seniors' vulnerability to lower digital literacy and their tendency to trust phone interactions over online transactions, while state protections and platform safeguards have proven insufficient to prevent these
aarp.org
· 2026-09-02
I cannot provide a summary of this content because the article text provided is not an article about scams or fraud. Instead, it appears to be a navigation menu and header structure from the AARP website showing various sections and links (such as Games, Money, Health, Travel, etc.). There is no actual article content describing a specific scam, fraud case, or incident to summarize.
To complete this task, please provide the actual article text about a specific scam or fraud incident.
upnorthnewswi.com
· 2026-09-02
Wisconsin seniors lost over $92 million to scams in the past year, with AI-powered scams using deepfake videos and spoofing techniques becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly targeting those ages 60 and older through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Scammers use AI-generated deepfake ads directing seniors to fake websites and chatbots that collect personal information, often exploiting seniors' lower digital literacy and preference for speaking with live representatives. Meta reportedly generates approximately $16 billion (10% of its ad revenue) from scam advertisements, despite having review teams and policies designed to prevent such content from appearing on its platforms.
communitynews.org
· 2026-08-31
Patricia Lindo-Ahono, a 60-year-old nursing director at Crystal Lake Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Bayville, pleaded guilty to assaulting a 77-year-old resident with a broom on June 24, 2023, and attempting to cover up the incident by falsifying an incident report and tampering with witnesses. She will permanently lose her nursing license and face three years of probation, anger management classes, and 50 hours of community service with no recommended prison time. The case highlights ongoing elder abuse issues in care facilities, as another nursing home worker was also prosecuted that same week for assaulting an elderly dementia patient with pepper spray.
foxnews.com
· 2026-08-30
A cyberattack on CareCloud, a company providing electronic medical records technology to healthcare providers, exposed personal information and medical records of over 3.75 million people after hackers gained unauthorized access to an Amazon Web Services environment between March 10-16, 2026. The stolen data included Social Security numbers, financial information, and medical records, putting victims at risk for identity theft, financial fraud, and medical identity theft. Affected individuals may have been exposed through their healthcare provider's use of CareCloud's services, even if they never directly created an account with the company.
jerseyshoreonline.com
· 2026-08-29
A nursing director at a New Jersey rehabilitation center pleaded guilty to assaulting a 77-year-old resident with a broom and attempting to obstruct the investigation into the incident in June 2023. Patricia Lindo-Ahono will permanently lose her nursing license and face three years of probation, anger management classes, and community service. The case highlights efforts to hold caregivers accountable for abuse of vulnerable elderly residents in care facilities.
jerseyshoreonline.com
· 2026-08-28
A Manchester nurse pleaded guilty to assaulting and neglecting an elderly dementia patient at an Ocean County rehabilitation facility, having pepper-sprayed the resident twice in March 2025 and then failed to provide care. Lisa Erikson, 57, will permanently lose her nursing license and faces 364 days in jail as part of her probation sentence scheduled for November 13. The victim, an elderly male resident with dementia, depression, and anxiety, was left on the floor without assistance before being forcibly returned to his room.
njoag.gov
· 2026-08-28
Patricia Lindo-Ahono, 60, a nursing director at Crystal Lake Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in New Jersey, pleaded guilty to assaulting a 77-year-old resident by striking him with a broom on June 24, 2023, and attempting to conceal the assault by tampering with witnesses. She will permanently lose her nursing license and faces three years of non-custodial probation with mandatory anger management classes and 50 hours of community service.
jerseyvindicator.org
· 2026-08-28
A nurse at Whiting Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Ocean County pleaded guilty to pepper-spraying an elderly resident with dementia multiple times at close range on March 19, 2025, and then leaving him unattended without medical care. Lisa L. Erikson, 57, admitted to second-degree aggravated assault, unlawful weapon possession, and elderly neglect, and will permanently lose her nursing license as part of her plea agreement. Prosecutors recommend she serve 364 days in county jail, with sentencing scheduled for November 13.
kcra.com
· 2026-08-28
Scammers are impersonating MyChart, a patient portal used to communicate with healthcare providers, through fake emails, texts, and websites to steal login credentials and financial information. Two prevalent scams include one that uses fake medical result notifications with malicious links leading to fake sign-in pages that install malware, and another offering free Medicare health kits that collect personal and credit card information. MyChart advises users to verify sender email addresses and website URLs, use official apps or bookmarks instead of clicking links in messages, and immediately reset passwords or contact banks if personal information was compromised.
abc-7.com
· 2026-08-28
Scammers are impersonating MyChart, a patient health portal, through fraudulent emails, texts, and fake websites to steal login credentials, personal information, and payment data. Two common scams identified include a fake medical results scheme that directs users to a phishing page and attempts to install malware through keyboard commands, and a fake Medicare kit giveaway that collects personal and credit card information under the guise of a free $149 health kit. MyChart advises users to verify sender addresses and website URLs, use official apps or bookmarked sites rather than clicking email links, and report suspicious messages immediately.
insidernj.com
· 2026-08-28
Patricia Lindo-Ahono, a 60-year-old nursing director at Crystal Lake Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in New Jersey, pleaded guilty to assaulting a 77-year-old resident by striking him with a broom on June 24, 2023, and then attempting to cover up the incident by tampering with witnesses. She will permanently forfeit her nursing license and face three years of non-custodial probation with anger management classes and 50 hours of community service. This case highlights the abuse of vulnerable elderly residents in care facilities and efforts to conceal such misconduct.
easternshoreundercover.com
· 2026-08-27
Linda Laird, 62, of Cordova, Maryland was convicted of financial exploitation of her 81-year-old grandmother, whom she served as co-guardian and co-conservator. Working with her father James Blizzard, Laird stole over $21,000 in Social Security benefits and $100,000 from the grandmother's bank accounts, using the funds for personal purchases including jewelry, designer shoes, and football tickets. She was found guilty on multiple federal charges including conspiracy to commit Social Security and mail fraud, wire fraud, and financial exploitation of a vulnerable elderly person.
foxnews.com
· 2026-08-27
Scammers build target lists months in advance of Medicare Open Enrollment (Oct. 15-Dec. 7) and Social Security COLA announcements to prepare for fraud campaigns in fall, using purchased consumer data to identify vulnerable older Americans. The article details a case where two former Epsilon Data Management employees sold targeted consumer lists to fraudsters who defrauded over 218,000 victims of more than $23.7 million, resulting in Epsilon paying $150 million in penalties and victim compensation. The article urges Americans to protect their data in August to avoid becoming targets for anticipated scams including fake Medicare cards and urgent Social Security warnings.
nbcphiladelphia.com
· 2026-08-27
Scammers are sending phishing emails and text messages impersonating MyChart, a medical patient portal, to steal personal information and passwords from thousands of patients in the Philadelphia region. The fraudulent messages often falsely promise "free" services like a "Medicare Kit" or "Senior Health Package" in exchange for personal data. Patients are advised to avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages and instead access MyChart directly through the official app or healthcare provider website.
knoe.com
· 2026-08-27
The Richland Parish Sheriff's Office is investigating a Medicare impersonation scam where an unknown individual approached an elderly resident's home, requested to see her Medicare card, and subsequently stole it. Authorities are warning residents not to allow unsolicited visitors into their homes or provide Medicare cards, Social Security numbers, or banking information to unknown persons claiming to represent Medicare.
chautauquacountyny.gov
· 2026-08-25
This article is not about a scam or fraud. It describes a public hearing scheduled by the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services to gather community input on aging services and priorities for older adults in the county. While the article mentions that the office provides education on scams and elder abuse prevention, it contains no information about any actual fraud incident or victimization.
fox5sandiego.com
· 2026-08-24
The San Diego County Council on Aging is hosting a Resource Fair on September 18th to educate seniors on important topics including Medicare changes, elder scams, and technology safety. The organization focuses on improving seniors' quality of life through community education and awareness initiatives designed to protect vulnerable older adults.
facebook.com
· 2026-08-22
A McAllen woman's mother fell victim to an in-person Medicare scam earlier this month, prompting a warning about the rising tide of elder fraud affecting seniors nationwide. The FBI reports that billions of dollars are lost to elder fraud annually, with scammers increasingly targeting vulnerable elderly people through Medicare-related schemes.
cyberguy.com
· 2026-08-22
Scammers build target lists of older Americans during August and September—months before Medicare Open Enrollment begins in October—by purchasing consumer data from marketing companies that sell detailed demographic information filtered by age, income, and homeownership. A case involving Epsilon Data Management illustrated how this targeting works: two employees sold lists to fraudsters who defrauded over 218,000 victims of $23.7 million, leading to a $150 million settlement. Experts warn that by the time scam calls arrive in fall, criminals have already identified and researched their targets, making it crucial for seniors to protect their personal data during the summer months.
krgv.com
· 2026-08-22
A McAllen woman's elderly mother was targeted by a scammer posing as a Medicare representative who called her home and then showed up in person to photograph her Medicare card and obtain signatures on unknown documents. Elder fraud losses have doubled from 2024 to 2025, with Americans 60 and older reporting over 200,000 complaints totaling nearly $7.8 billion in losses, averaging $38,500 per person. The FBI warns that these sophisticated scams often use impersonation and AI technology, and advises the public to verify callers' identities and never provide personal information or move money based on unsolicited contact.
facebook.com
· 2026-08-22
The FBI reports that elder fraud cases are rising with billions of dollars lost annually, with a McAllen family recently becoming victims of an in-person Medicare scam targeting an elderly mother. The article highlights the growing threat of elder fraud and provides FBI guidance on steps victims should take if they are targeted by such schemes.
attorneygeneral.gov
· 2026-08-20
Stephanie Mobley, former owner of ComfortZone Home Health Care in Montgomery County, was sentenced to 17 months to 10 years in prison for orchestrating a $1.76 million Medicaid fraud scheme between 2020 and 2023. The scheme involved submitting false reimbursement claims for services never provided, arranging kickbacks, assigning phony caregivers, and recruiting clients to participate, with 19 total defendants involved in the conspiracy. Mobley must pay $1.76 million in restitution to the Medicaid program intended to serve vulnerable Pennsylvanians.
atg.wa.gov
· 2026-08-15
This article does not contain information about scams or fraud. It is a personnel announcement regarding Megan Cotton's appointment as Director of Tribal Relations for the Washington State Attorney General's Office. As this falls outside the scope of elder fraud research, no summary is applicable.
foxnews.com
· 2026-08-14
Scammers exploit personal data found on data broker websites to create convincing healthcare and Medicare fraud schemes using QR codes that disguise their malicious destinations. Criminals can place fake QR codes in doctor's offices, pharmacies, and hospitals to trick patients into visiting fraudulent websites and surrendering sensitive information like Medicare numbers, login credentials, and credit card details. Protecting yourself requires both recognizing suspicious QR codes and limiting your personal information available online through data brokers and people-search websites.
ncoa.org
· 2026-08-12
Older Americans aged 60 and over filed over 201,000 fraud complaints in 2025 with losses exceeding $7.7 billion—a 37% increase from the previous year—as scammers increasingly target seniors through phone calls, texts, emails, and social media impersonating banks and government agencies. Sherman J., a 67-year-old, avoided losing money by trusting his instincts when a caller claiming to be from his bank requested sensitive information, and later found support through a community scam awareness workshop at his local senior center. Community-based prevention programs are helping older adults recognize common scams including romance fraud, fake lottery winnings, and contractor fraud, while newer AI
singjupost.com
· 2026-08-10
This transcript from an August 2026 FBI interview does not contain information about elder fraud, scams targeting seniors, or fraud cases suitable for an elder fraud research database. The content focuses on FBI Director Kash Patel discussing World Cup security operations, counter-drone systems, and mentions Operation Blackout only in passing without substantive details about scam victims or fraud amounts.
timesleader.com
· 2026-08-10
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday addressed legislators about crime trends, highlighting that violent crime is generally down but drug offenses are increasing, with his office removing 56.5 million fentanyl doses from streets. He emphasized growing concerns about senior scams, noting Pennsylvania's large elderly population is at high risk, and revealed his office's newly created elder exploitation unit is already overwhelmed with cases. Sunday advocated for legislative action to empower financial institutions to place holds on potentially fraudulent transactions to prevent elder fraud, as stolen money is rarely recovered.
contracosta.news
· 2026-08-08
A certified nursing assistant named Arian Mojaddidi was arrested and charged with felony sexual abuse of an 86-year-old resident with diminished capacity at Concord Post Acute skilled nursing facility in California. The alleged inappropriate contact was reported to the California Department of Public Health, which referred the case to the Division of Medi-Cal Fraud & Elder Abuse for investigation. The defendant faces charges of lewd acts by a caretaker upon a dependent adult and is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
oag.ca.gov
· 2026-08-07
A certified nursing assistant at Concord Post Acute skilled nursing facility in Concord, California was arrested and charged with felony sexual abuse of an 86-year-old resident with diminished capacity. The case was referred to the California Division of Medi-Cal Fraud & Elder Abuse by the Department of Public Health, and the nursing assistant faces charges of lewd acts by a caretaker upon a dependent adult.
oig.ssa.gov
· 2026-08-07
Antonio Franklin, age 47, from Milwaukee County was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for wire fraud involving the concealment of over $1 million in undisclosed bank account activity from January 2020 through March 2025. Franklin fraudulently received nearly $300,000 in disability and supplemental security income benefits from federal and state programs by failing to disclose information about his assets that would have affected his eligibility. In addition to imprisonment, the court ordered Franklin to pay full restitution of the fraudulently obtained benefits.
ibtimes.co.uk
· 2026-08-05
Multiple Social Adult Day-Care centres in Flushing, Queens billed New York's Medicaid programme approximately $733 million between 2018 and 2024, with journalists discovering locked doors and empty facilities despite claims of serving tens of thousands of seniors. The 77 centres within a one-mile radius account for roughly 14 percent of the state's entire social adult day-care spending, prompting investigations from state and federal authorities into allegations of illegal kickbacks and Medicaid fraud. While no centres have been officially charged, the scandal reveals severe oversight vulnerabilities, with evidence suggesting taxpayer money may be siphoned off using vulnerable seniors as billing cover.
chautauquacountyny.gov
· 2026-08-05
The Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services is hosting a Fraud and Scam Prevention Program on August 27, 2026, to educate older adults about increasingly sophisticated scams targeting seniors through phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media. Common scams affecting older New Yorkers include impersonation scams, fake government agency calls, romance scams, Medicare fraud, tech support scams, and grandparent scams, with criminals often requesting payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency. The program will teach participants to recognize warning signs and follow the "Stop. Verify. Protect." rule: never act under pressure, independently verify callers using trusted phone numbers, and never share personal
attorneygeneral.gov
· 2026-08-05
Four home care workers at Hickory Creek Home Care in Warren County have been charged with felony neglect and Medicaid fraud after a care-dependent resident died in deplorable conditions, confined to a reclining chair for approximately 40 days. The defendants—Gregory Stanbro, Michelle Chapin, Katrina Burgeson, and Kimberly Hogan—allegedly failed to provide basic hygiene assistance while the Pennsylvania Medicaid program was fraudulently billed $6,873.60 for services never rendered. Each defendant was arraigned with bail set at $50,000 unsecured.
crimewatch.net
· 2026-08-03
The East Lansdowne Police Department issued a warning alert about common scams targeting senior citizens, including phantom hacker scams, grandparent scams, government impersonation schemes, tech support fraud, lottery scams, and romance scams. The department emphasized that legitimate organizations never demand payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or payment apps, and advised seniors to hang up on suspicious callers, protect personal information, and report suspected scams to local law enforcement.
foxbusiness.com
· 2026-08-01
Minnesota enacted a ban on cryptocurrency ATMs that took effect Saturday after residents reported losing nearly $1 million in scams involving the machines since 2023, with criminals impersonating law enforcement to pressure elderly victims into sending money through the kiosks. In 2025 alone, there were 70 reported cases resulting in over $540,000 in losses with an average loss of nearly $6,800 per transaction, as crypto transactions cannot be reversed once sent to a scammer's digital wallet. The ban requires removal of all existing machines by December 31, addressing a scam disproportionately targeting seniors who are often too embarrassed to report their losses.
newrepublic.com
· 2026-07-29
The Democratic National Committee was defrauded of nearly $29,000 in February 2025 when a staffer fell for a phishing email impersonating Chair Ken Martin and processed an unauthorized disbursement. Only $7,000 of the $28,860.92 has been recovered, and the incident adds to the DNC's existing financial troubles, including an $18.5 million debt and recent internal dysfunction. The scam occurred amid growing calls for Martin's resignation following reports of poor financial management and organizational chaos within the committee.
wcti12.com
· 2026-07-28
The New Bern Police Department is warning of a rising trend in scam calls targeting seniors, where fraudsters impersonate Medicare and IRS officials to create panic and extort personal information or immediate payment. Legitimate government agencies will not threaten, demand payment, or request Social Security or Medicare numbers over the phone.
oag.ca.gov
· 2026-07-28
California's Attorney General secured a $15 million settlement with Sweetwater Care Resource, a skilled nursing facility chain that systematically understaffed its 17 facilities in violation of state law from 2021 to 2024 while accepting tens of millions in Medi-Cal funds. The investigation found over 14,000 instances where Sweetwater nursing homes fell below California's mandatory minimum staffing requirements of 3.5 direct care hours per resident day. The settlement includes $12.5 million in penalties and $2.5 million toward staffing improvements, plus a three-year independent compliance monitor for all Sweetwater facilities.
forbes.com
· 2026-07-25
Fraud targeting older Americans has become a critical retirement security issue, with reported property crimes against seniors jumping 62% between 2015 and 2025, and the FBI receiving over 201,000 fraud complaints from people 60+ in 2025 alone—with average losses exceeding $38,000 per victim. Common scams affecting retirees include investment fraud, romance scams, fake tech support, government impersonation, and "grandparent scams" where criminals pose as family members in distress. To protect themselves, seniors should verify requests for money through independent contact with family members, be skeptical of unsolicited investment opportunities, never give remote access to their computer to unknown callers, and report suspicious activity to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.
elderlawanswers.com
· 2026-07-24
I appreciate you asking, but the article text appears to be cut off after the title and opening fragment. I can see it mentions Medicare's open enrollment period (October 15-December 7) and references a surge in Medicare-related scams targeting older adults, but I don't have enough of the actual article content to provide you with an accurate 2-3 sentence summary covering what happened, who was affected, and actionable advice.
Could you please provide the full article text? Once I have it, I'll be happy to summarize it for a general audience.
floridaweekly.com
· 2026-07-23
Older adults in South Florida are increasingly targeted by scams—including romance schemes, fake tech support calls, government impersonation, and cryptocurrency fraud—which can devastate those living on fixed incomes where even small losses affect their ability to afford housing, food, and medications. A Palm Beach woman fell victim to a classic romance scam where a fraudster posed as a Hallmark actor to gain her trust and money. Experts recommend that seniors and their families take preventive steps to protect themselves, such as watching for common scam tactics and being cautious about unfamiliar technology and unsolicited contacts.
foxbusiness.com
· 2026-07-22
# Summary
A 39-year-old Chinese national, Didi Zou, was arrested in June for allegedly orchestrating a sophisticated internet fraud scheme that defrauded an elderly Buffalo-area woman of $360,000 in life savings and inherited assets. Using fake Microsoft security alerts and posing as an IRS agent, Zou tricked the victim into transferring $20,000 in cash and gold coins/bullion to "protect" her funds from supposed hackers. Zou faces federal charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering and was ordered held in custody pending trial.
patch.com
· 2026-07-22
About 2 million people fall victim to medical identity theft annually, but Medicare beneficiaries can protect themselves through awareness and vigilance. The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program offers free education, counseling, and assistance to help people prevent, detect, and report healthcare fraud, errors, and abuse. If you suspect you've been scammed or want to get involved, contact your local Connecticut SMP at 800-994-9422 or visit their website for resources and information.
floridaweekly.com
· 2026-07-22
A Palm Beach woman fell victim to a classic romance scam in which a fraudster posed as a Hallmark actor and eventually separated her from money—a scheme emblematic of the growing threat seniors face across South Florida. Older adults living on fixed incomes are increasingly targeted by various scams including tech support fraud, government impersonation, Medicare fraud, and romance schemes, with even small financial losses potentially jeopardizing their ability to afford housing, utilities, medication, and care. Experts recommend that seniors and their families take protective steps such as staying alert to common scam tactics, being cautious with technology, and verifying the identities of people requesting money or personal information.
irs.gov
· 2026-07-21
Federal prosecutors in Indiana have established a new Fraud Task Force and convened 20 law enforcement agencies to crack down on fraud targeting taxpayer-funded programs, cybercrime, and predatory schemes across the state. The initiative, part of a nationwide White House effort, has already resulted in charges or prison sentences against 19 individuals in 2026, including convictions in a $1.2 million travel insurance scheme and a $500,000 elder fraud case. Citizens should be aware that fraud investigations and prosecutions are expected to increase, and they can protect themselves by reporting suspicious activity involving federal benefit programs or targeting vulnerable populations like the elderly.
postnewsgroup.com
· 2026-07-19
The National Probate Reform Coalition will present at Washington's 2026 Whistleblower Summit to raise awareness about adult guardianship abuse, a widespread problem where vulnerable seniors and adults are exploited financially through the guardianship system. The event will feature a screening of the documentary "The Bad Guardian," panel discussions with advocates and journalists, and aims to shift public perception of guardianship issues from private family matters to serious public policy concerns. If you or a family member is subject to a guardianship, experts recommend seeking legal counsel and contacting organizations like the Center for Estate Administration Reform to ensure proper oversight and protection against financial exploitation.
amac.us
· 2026-07-18
Scammers targeting older Americans aren't calling randomly—they're purchasing personal data from "data brokers" before reaching out, which makes their pitches unnervingly personalized and effective. Americans 60 and older lost $3 billion to fraud in 2025, up from $600 million in 2020, with exposed personal information playing a role in 72% of reported elder fraud cases. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls regardless of how convincing they sound, and consider limiting your personal information online by opting out of data broker services when possible.
hospicenews.com
· 2026-07-18
Dr. Sanjoy Banerjee and two other medical directors at Fountain Hospice in Los Angeles were arrested for defrauding Medicare and Medi-Cal of over $3.2 million by falsely certifying ineligible patients for hospice care without their knowledge between 2016 and 2024. Patients were harmed when they were later denied hospice services at the end of life after their information was misused to submit fraudulent claims. To protect yourself, verify that any hospice care recommendations come directly from your healthcare provider and confirm your eligibility before enrollment.
irs.gov
· 2026-07-18
Two members of a Chinese money laundering network, Zhuoying Chen and Haojie Zhang, have been charged with laundering over $40 million in funds stolen from victims through "pig butchering" investment scams. These scams typically target vulnerable people who are deceived into investing money that fraudsters steal and move through the network to China. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious about unsolicited investment opportunities, especially those from people you've met online, and verify any investment opportunity through official channels before sending money.
ground.news
· 2026-07-18
U.S. prosecutors charged two New York residents, Zhuoying Chen and Haojie Zhang, for laundering at least $43 million stolen from victims of "pig butchering" investment scams—elaborate online fraud schemes where scammers pose as romantic interests or investment advisors to trick people into sending money. The operation, which ran from 2020 to 2022, involved a network of shell companies and bank accounts used to move stolen funds to China. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited investment opportunities or romantic connections online, verify investment opportunities through official channels, and report suspicious financial activity to authorities immediately.
aol.com
· 2026-07-14
Ohio seniors face widespread exploitation through various forms of elder abuse, including phone scams, financial exploitation by caregivers or family members, and schemes that drain lifetime savings, often going unreported due to shame or fear. Law enforcement and prosecutors report these crimes are neither rare nor isolated, with victims often discovered too late after significant financial, physical, or emotional damage. Residents and officials are being urged to support stronger law enforcement measures, improved prosecutions, and accountability systems to protect vulnerable seniors from predators who exploit trust and isolation.
yahoo.com
· 2026-07-11
An elderly woman in Madison County nearly lost $25,000 after scammers convinced her to seal cash in magazines and ship it as a "gift," but her son discovered the scheme and recovered the package in time. According to the FBI, seniors over 60 lost over $7.7 billion to scams in 2025, with complaints from this age group jumping 37% year-over-year. Authorities urge people to check on elderly loved ones regularly and advise never mailing cash, being wary of demands for secrecy or quick action, and calling trusted family members or local police before sending money in unusual ways.
ncoa.org
· 2026-07-10
Imposter scams—where criminals pose as trusted family members, government agencies, or businesses to steal money or personal information—affected victims who lost $3.5 billion in 2025 alone, with seniors being particularly targeted through schemes like the "grandparent scam" where callers claim a relative needs emergency bail money. To protect yourself, be suspicious of unexpected calls that create urgency, ask for money or personal details, or pressure you not to verify the caller's identity by contacting family or authorities directly. Always take time to independently confirm the caller's identity through official phone numbers or by reaching out to the person they claim to be before sending any money or sharing sensitive information.
aol.com
· 2026-07-10
A 73-year-old retired social worker lost her entire $300,000 retirement savings to scammers who impersonated Microsoft Tech Support and her investment firm, using psychological manipulation and fear tactics about hacking and child pornography to convince her to transfer funds. Fraud targeting seniors has surged 300% since 2020, with gold courier scams becoming so prevalent they're now their own FBI crime category, and victims should remember that no legitimate government agency will ever request payment via gold, cash, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, verify unexpected calls independently by hanging up and calling official numbers directly, and work only with certified fiduciary financial advisors who are legally required to put your interests first.
247wallst.com
· 2026-07-09
A 73-year-old retired social worker lost her entire $300,000 retirement nest egg to an elaborate scam that began with a fake Microsoft security warning and escalated through coordinated psychological manipulation by fake tech support and investment fraud representatives. The scammers used fear tactics—falsely claiming she was involved in illegal activity—to coerce her into liquidating her assets, buying gold coins, and handing them to a courier, with her bank failing to intervene despite the highly unusual transactions. To protect yourself, be extremely skeptical of unsolicited pop-ups or calls claiming security issues, never transfer large sums based on phone conversations alone, and always verify requests directly with your financial institution using official contact numbers rather than those provided by the caller.
foxbusiness.com
· 2026-07-08
# Summary
The Trump administration's Department of Labor Inspector General has launched an investigation into alleged H-1B and PERM visa fraud, issuing dozens of subpoenas to examine potential labor trafficking, human trafficking tied to cartels, and displacement of American workers across industries including tech, healthcare, and consulting. The probe focuses on fraudulent visa schemes involving both factory workers and skilled professionals in medical facilities, with investigators alleging that perpetrators are exploiting the visa system and putting people at risk. No specific dollar amounts or victim counts have been disclosed in this announcement of the ongoing investigation.
ca.news.yahoo.com
· 2026-07-06
Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng, known as "Dada Joe Remix," pleaded guilty to leading a $4.4 million romance and inheritance scam that targeted elderly people in Arizona and across the United States from 2013 to 2023. The scheme involved perpetrators posing as romantic interests online and falsely claiming victims had inherited gold and jewels, then demanding payment for taxes or fees before releasing the assets. Seniors and their families are urged to be cautious about online dating profiles and unsolicited messages from strangers, and to verify any inheritance claims through official channels before sending money.
moabtimes.com
· 2026-06-30
Utah seniors aged 60 and older lost nearly $66 million to fraud last year, with criminals using common tactics like impersonating government agencies, family members, or businesses to pressure victims into sending money or sharing personal information. U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak is conducting statewide presentations to help older adults recognize scams before becoming victims, noting that many cases go unreported due to embarrassment or fear of losing independence. To protect yourself, be suspicious of urgent demands for payment, unexpected prizes, and unsolicited contact claiming to represent trusted organizations—always verify requests independently before sending money or sharing personal details.
mainstreetdailynews.com
· 2026-06-27
Seniors nationwide lost $3.4 billion to fraud in 2023, with Florida ranking second among states for elder fraud cases, affecting an estimated one in 10 to 14 older adults—and those with dementia face even higher risk. Local authorities and organizations like Elder Options are raising awareness about these scams, which are often perpetrated by family members the victims trusted with their finances, causing both financial and emotional damage. Experts recommend seniors stay vigilant about financial decisions, work with trusted community partners and law enforcement when suspicious activity occurs, and encourage open communication with family members about financial matters.
mysuncoast.com
· 2026-06-26
A Manatee County fraud investigation targeting elderly residents through phone calls and in-person cash collection schemes has resulted in multiple arrests and a 27-month federal prison sentence for suspect Xin Liu, who attempted to collect over $95,000 from more than 40 victims across Florida. The scammers impersonated government officials like FTC representatives to trick seniors into handing over cash, with one victim losing over $200,000 and being targeted repeatedly. Authorities advise elderly residents to be suspicious of unsolicited calls or visitors requesting money, verify identities independently through official channels, and report suspected fraud to local law enforcement immediately.
floridapolitics.com
· 2026-06-26
Florida authorities arrested two suspects, Ronald Keith Pack and Marie Carenan, for operating a multiyear fraud and abuse ring targeting elderly and disabled adults across eight unlicensed facilities in Central Florida. The defendants allegedly stole Social Security benefits, confiscated identification and debit cards, denied residents food and medicine, and restricted their movement by locking doors and windows. If you or a loved one is in assisted living, watch for warning signs like restricted access to money, isolation from family, missing medications, or poor living conditions—and report concerns immediately to local law enforcement or Florida's Department of Elder Affairs.
irs.gov
· 2026-06-17
The IRS Criminal Investigation division is warning of a sharp rise in fraud targeting elderly Americans, with 161 new cases opened in the past 18 months and over $885 million in alleged fraud from 2021-2026. Common schemes involve criminals using deceptive tactics to steal money and personal information from seniors, with nearly 97% of prosecuted cases resulting in convictions and average prison sentences of four years. Older adults and their family members are encouraged to stay vigilant, report suspected fraud to their local IRS Criminal Investigation office, and not feel embarrassed about falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams.
pandasecurity.com
· 2026-06-16
Financial scam advertisements are proliferating on major social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, prompting formal complaints from European consumer groups against Google, Meta, and TikTok for failing to remove fraudulent ads that reach millions of users. Between December 2025 and March 2026, regulators reported nearly 900 suspected fraudulent ads, but platforms removed only 27% of them—with TikTok performing worst at 21%—suggesting potential financial incentives to overlook scams since Meta earned millions in ad revenue from Medicare-related fraud alone. To protect yourself, scrutinize financial ads on social media carefully, verify claims through official sources rather than links in ads, and report suspected fraudulent content to the platforms immediately.
njoag.gov
· 2026-06-16
A North Jersey financial adviser was convicted of stealing over $300,000 from an elderly client whose finances he was managing, facing up to 10 years in prison. The case highlights the vulnerability of seniors living on fixed incomes who rely on trusted professionals to manage their money. To protect yourself, elderly individuals and their families should monitor account statements regularly, use advisers who are registered and regulated, and consider having a trusted family member or independent party review financial arrangements.
uk.pcmag.com
· 2026-06-15
Many people receive numerous scam and spam texts daily, often from numbers obtained through data breaches and sold on the dark web. The article recommends enabling built-in message filtering features on both iOS and Android phones—which automatically sort unknown senders into separate folders—and remaining skeptical of any unsolicited messages, especially those containing links or requests for money or personal information. Users should only trust messages from saved contacts and be particularly wary of "wrong number scams" where scammers pose as acquaintances or romantic interests to build trust before requesting money or pushing investments.
aol.com
· 2026-06-14
Americans over 60 lost more than $7.7 billion to fraud in the past year—a 37% increase—with the FBI and FTC identifying seven major scams targeting seniors, including AI voice-cloning schemes, government impersonation, tech support fraud, romance scams, investment fraud, and Medicare phishing. To protect yourself, experts recommend creating a family safe word to verify callers' identities and independently confirming any suspicious contacts by calling the person directly using known contact information rather than numbers provided by the potential scammer.
heraldpalladium.com
· 2026-06-13
Medicare beneficiaries should be alert to durable medical equipment fraud, where vendors offer items for free at health fairs but then bill Medicare for expensive equipment that doesn't match what was actually provided. The article advises seniors and their families to carefully review their Medicare Explanation of Benefits statements and report suspicious billing discrepancies to the Senior Medicare Patrol, as this type of fraud can indicate a compromised Medicare number. If you encounter this situation, contact your local Area Agency on Aging or Medicare directly rather than ignoring unexpected charges.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-06-10
A comprehensive study found that Americans aged 60 and older lost $7.748 billion to internet fraud in 2025—a 59% jump from the previous year—with actual losses potentially reaching $10 billion to $81 billion when accounting for underreporting. The most common scams targeting seniors include investment fraud, tech support scams, romance scams, and government impersonation schemes, with artificial intelligence now playing an increasing role in perpetrating these crimes. Seniors should verify unexpected contacts independently, never share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers, consult trusted family members or financial advisors before making decisions, and report suspected fraud to the FTC or local law enforcement.
newsweek.com
· 2026-06-10
The FBI released an updated list of most-wanted fraudsters accused of schemes costing victims tens of millions to over $1 billion, including healthcare fraud, investment scams, mortgage fraud, and money laundering. Notable cases include Herbert Leon Kimble, who allegedly orchestrated a $1.2 billion Medicare fraud scheme using call centers to push unnecessary orthopedic braces, and Michael Lizaso Marasigan, accused of stealing over $10.7 million from a charitable bingo operation meant to fund children's medical programs. The FBI is asking the public to report any information about these suspects, emphasizing that citizens are crucial to locating fugitives and that even small details can help investigators.
atg.wa.gov
· 2026-06-09
Following the Nippon Dynawave paper mill disaster in Longview, Washington's Attorney General is warning residents about fraudulent charity scams that criminals may use to exploit people's desire to help victims. Donors should research charities before giving, verify they have a legitimate history of disaster relief work, and be cautious of suspicious solicitations—reporting any suspicious activity to the Attorney General's Office. Taking time to vet organizations and using official crowdfunding platforms can help protect donors from becoming victims of charity scams.
wlwt.com
· 2026-06-06
Federal officials announced a major crackdown on fraud in Ohio, charging 14 people in cases involving over $57 million in alleged Medicaid fraud, COVID-19 relief fraud, and romance scams. The cases include a $30 million behavioral health fraud scheme with false Medicaid billing, a $12 million individual fraud case, a $15 million romance scam, and other schemes, with authorities seizing hundreds of thousands in cash and vehicles. To protect consumers, officials are establishing task forces and suspending high-risk healthcare providers, while the public should remain vigilant about unsolicited financial requests and verify healthcare billing legitimacy.
tn.gov
· 2026-06-06
Tennessee's Department of Disability and Aging and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation have partnered to distribute educational magnets and information cards about common scams to older adults through meal delivery services, recognizing that homebound seniors are particularly vulnerable targets for fraud and elder abuse. The initiative will use meal delivery programs to reach seniors with information about the SafeSeniorTN website and resources that help them identify and avoid scams. Older adults receiving meals at home should watch for the educational materials and visit SafeSeniorTN to learn about common scams and where to report suspected fraud.
irs.gov
· 2026-06-05
A Jamaican national named Jordan Trought has pleaded guilty to leading an international sweepstakes scam that defrauded over 200 elderly American victims of more than $9 million between 2015 and 2025. The scheme involved scammers calling or texting victims claiming they had won money and prizes, then convincing them to pay "taxes" or "fees" upfront and in some cases gaining access to their bank accounts to steal additional funds. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited calls or texts about sweepstakes winnings, never pay upfront fees to claim a prize, and verify any legitimate prize claims by contacting the official company directly.
tn.gov
· 2026-06-05
Tennessee's Department of Disability and Aging and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation have partnered to distribute scam-awareness materials to vulnerable older adults through meal delivery services, recognizing that homebound seniors are frequent targets for fraud and elder abuse. The initiative will place magnets and information cards about the SafeSeniorTN website—which offers guidance on technology, financial, and personal safety scams—directly into meal packages delivered to seniors across the state. Older adults receiving these services should review the materials provided and visit SafeSeniorTN to learn how to recognize and report scams targeting seniors.
statenews.org
· 2026-06-05
Fourteen people in Ohio face charges for orchestrating fraud schemes that stole over $50 million from Medicaid, COVID relief funds, and dating sites, with one defendant accused of fraudulently billing Ohio's Medicaid program alone for $12 million worth of services never provided. The schemes affected both government programs and individual victims across the country, prompting authorities to suspend payments to 49 additional home health providers under investigation for suspicious billing patterns. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited health service offers, verify provider credentials through official Medicaid websites, and report suspicious billing or dating site activity to local authorities.
foxnews.com
· 2026-06-01
Seniors over 60 are increasingly targeted by identity theft and fraud, filing over 201,000 complaints in 2025 with average losses of $38,500—nearly double younger victims' losses—while total fraud costs to older adults range from $10 billion to $81 billion annually. Scammers exploit the fact that seniors have multiple financial accounts (banks, Medicare, Social Security, pensions) that can be breached using publicly available information like birthdates and Social Security numbers, and new AI voice-cloning technology makes impersonation easier than ever. Adult children can help protect aging parents by securing their personal information across all accounts and being cautious of unexpected calls, particularly those requesting verification details or claiming to be family members in distress.
noticias.foxnews.com
· 2026-05-31
Americans aged 60 and older lost $7.7 billion to fraud in 2025, with victims averaging losses of nearly $38,500—almost double younger victims' losses—making seniors the most defrauded age group according to FBI data. Older adults are particularly vulnerable because they typically have multiple financial and government accounts (banks, Medicare, Social Security, pensions) that scammers can exploit, and new threats like AI voice cloning now allow fraudsters to impersonate loved ones convincingly. To protect aging parents, adult children should help them implement credit freezes, secure their sensitive personal information (like Social Security numbers and birthdates) used for account verification, and remain vigilant about phone calls from grandchildren or others requesting money, especially when voice authenticity seems uncertain.
savingadvice.com
· 2026-05-31
Seniors are losing a record $7.7 billion annually to financial scams that typically begin with unsolicited phone calls or text messages creating false urgency. Common scams include fake bank fraud alerts asking victims to verify account information, Medicare renewal schemes requesting personal details, and other schemes exploiting seniors' retirement savings and established credit. To protect yourself, never respond to unsolicited messages asking for passwords or personal information, remember that legitimate banks and Medicare won't request sensitive data unexpectedly, and verify any suspicious communications by calling your institution directly using a number from their official website.
navarrepress.com
· 2026-05-31
Medicare fraud costs the program an estimated $60 billion annually and has serious consequences for beneficiaries, including stress, identity theft, and potential health impacts. The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is launching Medicare Fraud Prevention Week (around June 5) to educate seniors on how to protect themselves and their loved ones from fraud. To protect yourself, learn to recognize fraud warning signs, review your Medicare statements carefully, and contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-800-963-5337 with any concerns or suspicious activity.
crestviewbulletin.com
· 2026-05-31
Medicare fraud costs the program an estimated $60 billion annually and takes a serious toll on beneficiaries through stress, identity theft, and potential health complications. The Senior Medicare Patrol is offering free education during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week (June 5) to help people protect themselves, detect fraud, and report suspicious activity. To learn prevention strategies, seniors can join a free Zoom class on June 1 or contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-800-963-5337 for questions and resources.
ctinsider.com
· 2026-05-29
Senior Americans lost over $7.7 billion to fraud in 2025, representing a 59% increase from the previous year, with phishing, tech support scams, and investment fraud being the most common schemes reported. Those 60 and older should proactively plan for financial caregiving arrangements and stay vigilant by learning to recognize fraud through resources like the SEC's Investor.gov website, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's elder fraud prevention guides, and the FDIC's Money Smart curriculum. Families are encouraged to have conversations now about who will help manage finances and monitor accounts to prevent costly exploitation before a crisis occurs.
santaclaritamagazine.com
· 2026-05-29
Elderly residents across Southern California have become targets of increasingly sophisticated fraud and abuse schemes, including a $17 million identity theft and real estate loan ring that forged documents to steal home equity from seniors, unlicensed care facilities that neglected vulnerable residents, and deed theft that allowed homes to be sold without owners' knowledge. The article advises that the most effective protection involves proactive planning—such as creating durable powers of attorney, funded living trusts, and recording homeowner alerts at the County Recorder—rather than attempting to recover after fraud has occurred, which is significantly more difficult and expensive.
mace.house.gov
· 2026-05-29
Congresswoman Nancy Mace has focused her work in Congress on protecting South Carolina seniors through legislation against fraud and exploitation, tax relief measures, and resolving over 1,000 constituent cases that recovered more than $1.5 million in benefits. Senior citizens affected by bureaucratic delays or benefit issues can contact their congressional representative's office for assistance in navigating federal agencies and recovering owed funds. The article emphasizes the importance of having responsive representation to address seniors' concerns and ensure they retain the benefits and tax advantages they've earned.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-05-27
Brett Blackman, founder of HealthSplash, was convicted of orchestrating a $1 billion Medicare fraud scheme that operated from 2015 to 2020 across Florida, Kansas, and Arizona by billing Medicare for unnecessary medical equipment that vulnerable elderly and sick patients were coerced into purchasing. His co-conspirator Gary Cox received a 15-year sentence, while Blackman faces up to 30 years in prison for his role in what prosecutors called "cold, calculated, industrial-scale theft." To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited offers for medical equipment, verify that any recommended medical devices are actually prescribed by your doctor, and report suspicious billing or pressure from medical companies to your insurance provider or local authorities.
multco.us
· 2026-05-27
Multnomah County is hosting a free document shredding event on May 30, 2026, to help protect community members—especially seniors and Medicare beneficiaries—from identity theft and fraud, which costs Medicare an estimated $60 billion annually and is the most common form of elder abuse. The event, held in partnership with the Senior Medicare Patrol during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, allows residents to safely destroy sensitive documents that could be used for fraudulent purposes. To protect yourself, securely dispose of personal documents containing financial or health information, and learn more about Medicare fraud prevention resources in your community.
thecentersquare.com
· 2026-05-27
Democratic state attorneys general declined to attend a White House roundtable discussion on welfare fraud, citing that they received the invitation only late Friday for a Tuesday event—what California's Attorney General Rob Bonta called a "disingenuous last-minute invitation" that signaled they were either an afterthought or unwelcome. The Democratic AGs, representing states like California, New York, and New Jersey, argued that fraud is a bipartisan issue affecting all states, and they emphasized their own track record of recovering billions in taxpayer dollars rather than participating in what they characterized as politically motivated "staged stunts." The disagreement reflects broader partisan tensions over how to address fraud, with Democrats calling for genuine collaboration while questioning the administration's focus on blue states specifically.
deseret.com
· 2026-05-27
A caretaker in Minnesota was indicted for Medicaid fraud after allegedly providing no services to an elderly man he was supposed to care for, who died neglected while the fraudster continued billing the government—a case Vice President JD Vance highlighted to demonstrate how fraud harms vulnerable populations, not just taxpayers. The federal government's Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, created in March, is intensifying efforts to prosecute fraud cases across the country and has called for bipartisan cooperation among state attorneys general. Vulnerable Americans, particularly the elderly, should be aware of who is providing their care services and verify that providers are actually delivering promised assistance.
foxnews.com
· 2026-05-26
Scammers are systematically targeting veterans by mining military records, VA databases, and public data sources to build detailed fraud profiles for identity theft and financial crimes. Veterans are particularly vulnerable because much of their sensitive information—including Social Security numbers, discharge papers, and service details—is scattered across semi-public federal databases and sold by data brokers. To protect yourself, be cautious about sharing personal information, monitor your credit reports regularly, verify requests from VA or military-related organizations directly, and consider a credit freeze if you believe your information has been compromised.
ashlandcountypictures.com
· 2026-05-22
Eight people have been indicted in Ohio for Medicaid fraud and theft from nursing home residents, with five healthcare providers accused of stealing over $542,000 from the government program through schemes including billing for services while traveling abroad and charging for care when patients were hospitalized. Three additional defendants face charges for allegedly stealing money directly from vulnerable nursing home residents, including a man accused of taking funds from a relative with dementia. Vulnerable individuals should monitor their healthcare bills and account activity closely, and family members should regularly check on elderly relatives' finances and ensure proper oversight of their care and finances.
wrtv.com
· 2026-05-22
Indiana ranks 8th worst in the nation for scam calls and texts, though overall scam call volume has dropped in recent months as fraudsters shift tactics to use AI for more targeted, personalized attacks rather than mass calling campaigns. Scammers are leveraging artificial intelligence to research victims on social media and craft convincing scripts, while the FTC reports that social media scams—particularly fake job offers and investment schemes—caused the highest financial losses last year. To protect yourself, consider using call-blocking apps like Truecaller (free on Android, paid on iOS) or contacting your wireless carrier about available scam-blocking features.
yahoo.com
· 2026-05-21
Eight people across Ohio, including home health aides and counselors, have been indicted for stealing over $542,000 from Medicaid and elderly nursing home residents through billing schemes. The defendants allegedly billed Medicaid for services never provided—such as in-home care while traveling internationally, working other jobs, or when patients were hospitalized—with one woman accused of fraudulently billing over $412,000 alone. Vulnerable Ohioans receiving Medicaid benefits should review their statements for suspicious charges, and family members of elderly care recipients should verify that billed services were actually rendered.
savingadvice.com
· 2026-05-21
Over 101,000 seniors age 60 and older fall victim to scams annually, losing nearly $5 billion to increasingly sophisticated fraud tactics including fake government agents, romance scams, and AI voice cloning. New AI-powered smart home systems are emerging as a defense mechanism by monitoring phone calls in real time to detect warning signs like urgency, threats, and emotional manipulation, then automatically alerting family members or emergency responders when suspicious activity is detected. For seniors living alone and their adult children, these integrated monitoring systems offer a proactive alternative to traditional education-based prevention by providing immediate alerts when a potential scam is in progress.
inkl.com
· 2026-05-21
Over 101,000 seniors age 60 and older fall victim to scams annually, losing nearly $5 billion collectively to increasingly sophisticated fraud tactics like fake government calls, romance schemes, and AI voice cloning. New AI-powered monitoring systems are emerging as a defense mechanism, automatically detecting common scam tactics during phone calls and alerting family members or emergency responders in real time. For families concerned about aging parents, these integrated smart systems offer an additional layer of protection beyond traditional education-based prevention methods.
virginislandsdailynews.com
· 2026-05-19
A St. Thomas woman named Henrietta Harlow was arrested for allegedly stealing nearly $134,000 from her elderly mother, who has advanced Alzheimer's dementia and was under her care. Using power of attorney, Harlow made unauthorized withdrawals and transfers from her mother's bank account, diverted Social Security benefits, and took control of her mother's rental property—actions that continued for years despite her mother's need for round-the-clock care and inability to manage her own finances. To protect vulnerable family members, people should monitor any relatives with power of attorney over elderly or disabled family members, review bank and financial statements regularly, and report suspected elder financial abuse to local authorities immediately.
sandiegometro.com
· 2026-05-19
San Diego County spent $26.8 million on air purifiers from Oransi LLC to help residents affected by pollution from the Tijuana River, but a competing company claims these purifiers will be ineffective at relieving the harmful hydrogen sulfide fumes residents are exposed to. Additionally, elder fraud cases have surged 84%, prompting local organizations to offer free workshops to help San Diego seniors protect themselves from becoming victims of scams targeting older adults.
insightnews.com
· 2026-05-19
Governor Tim Walz signed eleven bills into law that include new protections for renters and homeowners, expanded mental health services in prisons, and a statewide framework to protect older Minnesotans and vulnerable people from financial fraud and exploitation. Key housing reforms address submeter billing practices and homeowners association governance, particularly benefiting renters in shared-meter buildings and first-time Black homeowners who have faced surprise charges and hidden assessments. To protect themselves, renters should review their lease terms carefully regarding digital rent payments and submeter charges, while homeowners should scrutinize HOA documentation and request transparent governance disclosures before purchasing property.
kjrh.com
· 2026-05-19
Scammers are using artificial intelligence to spoof trusted phone numbers—including news stations and government agencies like Medicare—to trick people into revealing personal information, with a recent incident targeting a Tulsa-area woman. According to the FBI, AI-enabled fraud surged dramatically in 2025, generating $893 million in losses and hitting seniors particularly hard, with those 60 and older losing $7.7 billion that year. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls asking for personal or financial information, verify caller identity independently by hanging up and calling the organization's official number, and remember that legitimate agencies won't ask for sensitive data over the phone.
alachuachronicle.com
· 2026-05-16
Scammers are targeting Medicare recipients with offers for "free" DNA or genetic testing through phone calls, door-to-door visits, and community events, potentially using stolen Medicare numbers to commit fraud or identity theft. Medicare only covers genetic testing when medically necessary and ordered by a doctor, so unsolicited offers should be treated with suspicion. To protect yourself, verify offers directly with Medicare, never share your Medicare number with unsolicited callers, and report suspected scams to the Florida Department of Elder Affairs at 1-800-963-5337 or through Operation Senior Shield.
mashable.com
· 2026-05-13
Meta generated approximately $14.3 million in ad revenue during 2025 by hosting scam advertisements targeting seniors, particularly those aged 65 and older in Texas and Florida, according to a watchdog report. These fraudulent Medicare-related ads used false promises of free benefits, AI-generated celebrity deepfakes, and fake enrollment deadlines to deceive elderly users, reaching 215 million impressions across Facebook despite Meta's removal efforts. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited ads promising free Medicare benefits, verify any enrollment information directly through official Medicare channels, and report suspicious ads to Meta and the FTC.
nbcnews.com
· 2026-05-12
# Summary
Scammers are exploiting Facebook and Instagram by repeatedly purchasing ads that target seniors with fake Medicare offers, using deepfakes and images of celebrities like Trump and Oprah to lure victims into sharing personal data or enrolling in fraudulent programs. A report by the Center for Countering Digital Hate found that 30 active scam accounts generated 215 million ad impressions over the past year, with 73% reaching users over 65, and estimated scammers spent approximately $12.4-$14.3 million on these ads. Meta faces criticism and multiple lawsuits for inadequately removing scam ads and allowing near-identical ads to reappear after being taken down
wfmd.com
· 2026-05-11
Data brokers expose retirees to significant fraud risk even after they attempt to remove their personal information, because hundreds of data broker companies operate across the U.S. and opting out from one site like Spokeo doesn't remove your data from others. Retirees are particularly vulnerable because their decades of public records, property ownership, and family connections make them attractive targets, and many believe their manual opt-out efforts provide full protection when they only offer temporary coverage on limited sites. To stay safer, people should understand that data brokers continuously pull updated information from public records and will relist removed information within weeks or months, requiring ongoing, repeated opt-out efforts rather than one-time actions.
foxnews.com
· 2026-05-10
Data brokers operate hundreds of websites that compile and sell personal information like names, addresses, phone numbers, and estimated net worth—primarily targeting retirees with decades of public records. Many people mistakenly believe that opting out of one or two data broker sites like Spokeo or Whitepages fully protects them, but the hundreds of other data brokers still have their information, and even sites they've opted out of often relist data within weeks as public records refresh. To stay protected, retirees should opt out of multiple data broker sites and understand that removal is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix, to prevent their information from being used in scams that can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
savingadvice.com
· 2026-05-10
Scammers are increasingly using fake QR codes—a tactic called "quishing"—to trick people into visiting malicious websites that steal personal and financial information, often by placing these codes in everyday locations like parking lots, restaurants, and utility bills. Seniors and smartphone users are particularly vulnerable because they tend to scan QR codes without questioning them, and the hidden destination cannot be seen before scanning. To protect yourself, experts recommend carefully inspecting QR codes before scanning, verifying they're from legitimate sources, and being especially cautious with unexpected codes in public spaces or unsolicited packages.
themesatribune.com
· 2026-05-09
A Mesa teenager named Shilo Karakkattu developed ScamSafe, a free website tool that helps seniors and others quickly identify scam calls and fraudulent messages by analyzing suspicious content and explaining warning signs in plain language. The tool was inspired by his grandparents' experiences with IRS robocalls and fake Medicare texts, and addresses a serious problem—Americans over 60 lost nearly $5 billion to scams in 2024, with Arizona particularly affected. ScamSafe requires no login, stores no personal data, is available in six languages, and is designed specifically for users who may be uncomfortable with technology.
wfmj.com
· 2026-05-09
Mark Marriott, a former facilities manager at a Sharon-based healthcare nonprofit called Primary Health Network, was sentenced in federal court for his role in a multiyear fraud scheme where he and other executives diverted hundreds of thousands of dollars through fake invoices and kickback arrangements between 2015 and 2020. The stolen funds, which came from an organization meant to serve underserved populations, were used to pay for personal expenses and work on executives' private homes. To protect nonprofits you support or work for, monitor contractor bids carefully, require competitive bidding processes, and report suspicious invoicing or expense patterns to leadership or board oversight committees.
waff.com
· 2026-05-08
Scams targeting adults 55 and older have increased by 10% since 2023, with fraudsters using imposter tactics like fake jury duty calls and fake government agency contacts, according to the Better Business Bureau. Seniors are increasingly vulnerable because they're spending more time online, and scammers are becoming more aggressive, particularly with crypto kiosk schemes where victims deposit cash that's nearly impossible to recover. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls from government agencies, avoid cryptocurrency kiosks, and verify caller identity through official phone numbers rather than using information provided by the caller.
thecentersquare.com
· 2026-05-08
A Milwaukee woman has been charged with defrauding Wisconsin's Medicaid program of $2.2 million through her home health care company by billing for personal care services that never took place. She allegedly used the stolen funds to purchase businesses including a frozen custard shop and a car wash, as well as a luxury Mercedes-Benz. Her attorney claims the charges stem from clerical errors rather than intentional fraud, but she faces multiple felony charges including theft by fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering.
queencreektribune.com
· 2026-05-08
A BASIS Mesa high school student named Shilo Karakkattu created ScamSafe, a free website tool that helps people—especially seniors—detect scam calls and text messages by analyzing suspicious content and explaining potential threats in plain language. The tool was inspired by his grandparents' experiences with fraudulent IRS and Medicare scams, and addresses a critical problem: Americans over 60 lost nearly $5 billion to scams in 2024, with Arizona among the hardest-hit states. ScamSafe requires no login, stores no personal data, is available in multiple languages, and uses a simplified design to help users who may be uncomfortable with technology—making it easy for anyone to paste or screenshot a suspicious message and get immediate clarity on whether it's a scam.
pmg-sc.com
· 2026-05-06
TruVista representative Taja Strickland presented a program to the Rotary Club on April 28, 2026, educating seniors about common scams including love bombing, medical fraud, and AI-generated fake calls and images. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to these schemes, which often aim to steal sensitive information or manipulate victims into sending money. To protect yourself, use reverse image searches to verify suspicious images, avoid sharing personal information, and contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network at 1-877-908-3360 or report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
wisn.com
· 2026-05-06
A Milwaukee woman named Debbie Long is accused of stealing nearly $2.2 million from Wisconsin Medicaid between 2017 and 2022 by submitting fake claims for in-home medical care she never provided, along with fraudulently obtaining a $219,000 pandemic relief loan. She allegedly used the stolen funds to purchase Kitt's Custard, a Mercedes-Benz, and an car wash, as well as to launder money through these businesses. Long faces charges of fraud and money laundering and is scheduled to appear in court in July.
einpresswire.com
· 2026-05-01
Lawrence and Leasa Carter of Sun Valley, Nevada have been indicted on 69 felony charges for allegedly defrauding Nevada Medicaid of at least $2 million through a multi-year scheme involving fake companies, false service claims, and identity theft of vulnerable individuals including seniors. The couple, who had previously been terminated as Medicaid providers, used shell companies to conceal their involvement and submitted false billing for services never rendered. People concerned about Medicaid fraud or suspicious provider activity should report it to their state's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and seniors should monitor their medical records and benefits statements for unauthorized use.
inquirer.com
· 2026-04-30
Fraud losses hit a record $15.9 billion in 2025, with scammers increasingly using AI-generated fake websites, emails, and videos to target people on social media and through phishing attempts. Investment, romance, crypto, and impostor scams are the main culprits, with nearly 30% of victims reporting the scam started on social media. To protect yourself, question unsolicited offers, avoid clicking links in suspicious emails or texts, access financial accounts only through official websites or apps you type directly into your browser, and trust your instincts if something seems off.
fox5vegas.com
· 2026-04-27
A Sun Valley couple, Lawrence and Leasa Carter, has been indicted on 69 felony charges for allegedly defrauding Nevada Medicaid of at least $2 million through a scheme involving fake companies, false service claims, and stolen identities of vulnerable people and seniors. The fraud operated over several years using shell companies to hide ownership while submitting fraudulent claims for services never provided. To protect yourself: verify any Medicaid communications directly with the state, monitor healthcare statements for unauthorized services, and report suspicious activity to your state's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
newportnewstimes.com
· 2026-04-26
Oregon residents filed over 10,000 consumer complaints with the state Department of Justice last year and recovered nearly $1.6 million—a 27% increase from 2024—with fraud, imposter scams, auto industry issues, and telecom complaints being the most common problems. The state's Consumer Advocacy Complaint Program is resolving complaints faster and holding businesses accountable, though fraud and scams continue to rise across the state. If you suspect fraud or a scam, filing a complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice can help you recover money and protect other consumers.
jocogov.org
· 2026-04-25
Johnson County Park and Recreation District is offering free educational programs in June to help seniors and others recognize and protect themselves from scams, which are a common form of elder abuse. Two sessions—"Financial Prevention" and "Senior Medicare Patrol: Preventing Fraud and Protecting Yourself"—will teach participants how to spot warning signs of fraud, understand common scams targeting seniors, and learn practical steps to safeguard personal information and finances. Interested participants can register for the free programs by calling 913-831-3359 or visiting jcprd.com/50plus.
cbsnews.com
· 2026-04-22
Hospice fraud is costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, with scammers using stolen identities and fake names to bill Medicare for end-of-life care services that patients don't receive. A Capitol Hill hearing exposed the widespread problem, including a case where a doctor's Medicare claims were fraudulently spread across 126 different hospice providers, and even a Medicare beneficiary whose identity was stolen to enroll her in unnecessary hospice care. Lawmakers from both parties are calling for stronger accountability measures and enforcement to crack down on the fraud and protect the Medicare hospice program.
wypr.org
· 2026-04-21
Elder financial fraud in Maryland has surged dramatically, with one in 20 older adults reporting financial abuse in 2024 and losing a combined $47 million—nearly five times more than in 2020, according to state officials. Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, including impersonating police officers and grandchildren, and leveraging artificial intelligence to sound convincing; one Montgomery County resident lost $10,000 after a fake police officer convinced her to transfer cash to a cryptocurrency kiosk. State leaders recommend verifying caller identities by hanging up and calling official numbers directly, and emphasize that there is no shame in being targeted, as older adults are often deliberately chosen by scammers.
natlawreview.com
· 2026-04-21
Maryland officials and non-profits launched "PROTECT Week," a statewide campaign to combat financial exploitation of older adults, which has become one of the fastest-growing forms of elder abuse. Seniors are being targeted at alarming rates—reports show one in 20 older adults experience financial abuse, with victims over 60 losing $4.885 billion in 2024 alone, a 43 percent increase from the previous year. To protect yourself, experts advise: if someone tells you to keep money transfers secret or claims authority and urgency, slow down and tell a trusted friend or family member before acting, and take advantage of free community resources like webinars and workshops being offered during PROTECT Week to learn how to spot and prevent fraud.
tpr.org
· 2026-04-20
The San Antonio Police Department warns that online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with criminals using AI-generated content, spoofed phone numbers, and high-pressure tactics to impersonate authorities and trick victims into sending money via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. San Antonio seniors are particularly targeted, with 330 crimes reported in 2025, and impostor fraud—where scammers pose as police or government officials—being the most common scheme. To protect yourself, authorities recommend hanging up on suspicious calls and verifying claims directly with official agencies, avoiding unfamiliar numbers, being skeptical of urgency or secrecy demands, and consulting trusted contacts before sending money.
nypost.com
· 2026-04-19
Senior citizens are increasingly falling victim to sophisticated scams, including the "phantom hacker/courier scheme" that costs Americans over $500 million annually, exemplified by a 76-year-old New Jersey man who lost hundreds of thousands of dollars after calling a number in a fake Norton antivirus email. These scams take various forms—from Medicare fraud and "grandparent" schemes to romance and IRS impersonation scams—and often go unreported because victims are embarrassed, making the true financial impact likely far greater than estimated. Banks and businesses need to take responsibility for enabling these schemes, and seniors should be cautious about unsolicited emails and calls requesting personal information or urgent wire transfers.
latimes.com
· 2026-04-18
California hospice providers have been systematically defrauding Medicare and vulnerable elderly patients by billing for end-of-life care for people who weren't actually terminally ill, a problem that was exposed in 2020 but has persisted despite promised reforms and a licensing moratorium. Despite years of pledges to strengthen oversight and enact new regulations, state officials have failed to implement meaningful protections, allowing the scams to continue and allegedly costing taxpayers over $260 million. Patients and their families should be cautious about hospice recommendations, verify a patient's actual medical condition before enrollment, and report suspicious billing practices to state health authorities or Medicare.
scdailypress.com
· 2026-04-15
A mother and daughter who ran a nonprofit after-school program in Silver City pleaded guilty to Medicaid fraud, agreeing to pay $6 million in restitution and serve over 10 years in prison combined. They submitted false claims to Medicaid for services never provided, illegally used the Social Security and Medicaid numbers of children and adults, and fabricated psychological disorders—affecting 31 victims, mostly children. To protect yourself, monitor your Medicaid statements for unauthorized charges, check your credit reports regularly, and immediately report any suspicious use of your Social Security number to authorities.
lamag.com
· 2026-04-11
California authorities charged 21 people and arrested 5 in connection with a $250 million hospice fraud scheme that involved using stolen identities from out-of-state residents to file false hospice claims against government insurance programs. The scheme drained resources meant for vulnerable and sick Californians, prompting officials to warn that such fraud undermines trust in critical care programs. Residents should monitor their personal information and be cautious of unsolicited hospice-related communications, as identity theft was a key component of this scam.
newsnationnow.com
· 2026-04-11
California authorities have dismantled a massive hospice fraud scheme that stole $267 million from the state's Medi-Cal program, charging 21 suspects who purchased fake identities on the dark web to fraudulently enroll people in hospice care and bill for services never provided. The investigation, called Operation Skip Trace, resulted in five arrests and the seizure of over $757,000 in cash, with prosecutors emphasizing that no legitimate hospice services were ever delivered despite the brazen billing scheme. Californians should remain vigilant about protecting their personal information and report any suspicious hospice billing or healthcare fraud to state authorities.
kq2.com
· 2026-04-11
California authorities have dismantled a major hospice fraud scheme that stole over $267 million in state Medi-Cal funding meant for end-of-life care, with more than 20 people charged and five arrested for operating shell companies to launder the stolen funds. The announcement comes as federal officials also arrested eight people involved in a separate $50 million hospice fraud operation in the Los Angeles area, highlighting widespread healthcare fraud targeting vulnerable patients. Residents and healthcare oversight officials should be vigilant about hospice billing practices, report suspicious activity to state authorities, and verify that their loved ones' care providers are legitimate and properly licensed.
gov.ca.gov
· 2026-04-10
California authorities have charged organized crime groups for running a major identity theft and hospice fraud scheme that defrauded the state's Medi-Cal program in Los Angeles by stealing identities to bill for fraudulent hospice services. The scheme affected Medi-Cal members and cost taxpayers significant funds, with the investigation beginning in 2024 before recent federal regulation rollbacks. Californians should remain vigilant about protecting their personal information and identities, and report any suspicious activity related to their Medi-Cal benefits or hospice services to state authorities.
cbsnews.com
· 2026-04-10
California authorities arrested five people and charged 21 suspects in a major hospice fraud scheme that defrauded the state of $267 million in Medi-Cal (Medicaid) funds. The alleged fraudsters purchased stolen identities from the dark web to enroll fake patients in Medi-Cal, then created shell hospice companies that billed the government for services that were never provided. To protect yourself, remain vigilant about monitoring your medical records and credit reports for unauthorized activity, and report any suspicious healthcare billing to authorities immediately.
yahoo.com
· 2026-04-10
California authorities have dismantled a massive hospice fraud scheme involving 21 suspects who stole $267 million from the state's Medi-Cal program by using stolen identities to fraudulently bill for hospice services that were never actually provided. The investigation, called Operation Skip Trace, resulted in five arrests, the seizure of over $757,000 in cash, and charges including health care fraud, money laundering, and identity theft. To protect yourself, be cautious about unsolicited communications regarding your medical enrollment and regularly monitor your Medi-Cal account for unauthorized activity.
smdp.com
· 2026-04-08
Los Angeles County is tackling a major fraud crisis in the home health and hospice industry, with Southern California identified as the epicenter of Medicare fraud nationwide, affecting vulnerable patients receiving end-of-life care. The LA County Board of Supervisors voted to strengthen oversight and coordination between local, state, and federal agencies, particularly targeting the 4,700+ home health and hospice providers operating in the county. Patients and families should be vigilant about verifying that home health and hospice providers are properly accredited and should report any suspicious billing practices or quality-of-care concerns to Medicare or their state health department.
hitconsultant.net
· 2026-04-08
In 2025, 38% of Americans received scam calls impersonating their healthcare providers, with scammers increasingly using AI-generated voices and multi-modal attacks (combining texts, calls, and emails) to deceive patients and staff. A major attack on Kettering Health demonstrated the serious impact, causing system outages that forced the organization to shut down operations for weeks while criminals impersonated staff to collect fraudulent payments. Healthcare organizations should implement multi-channel verification protocols, educate staff and patients to verify caller identity through official contact methods, and strengthen IT security to prevent the system disruptions that scammers exploit.
atg.wa.gov
· 2026-04-08
Washington State's Attorney General has warned residents about a surge of fraudulent investment schemes on Meta platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp) that use fake ads and deepfake technology to trick people into scams like "pump and dump" schemes and cryptocurrency fraud, resulting in devastating financial and psychological losses for victims. To protect yourself, be skeptical of investment advice posted on social media, remember that legitimate brokers rarely advertise specific investments on these platforms, and report any suspected scams to the Consumer Protection Division.
savingadvice.com
· 2026-04-05
Wisconsin's 2026 Supreme Court election could significantly impact seniors and retirees, despite receiving little public attention, because the winning justice will serve a 10-year term and help shape court decisions affecting Medicare disputes, healthcare access, elder protection laws, and benefits interpretation. While Medicare and Social Security are federal programs, state courts play a crucial role in how these benefits are administered locally through rulings on provider disputes, coverage conflicts, and patient protections. Voters who depend on healthcare or retirement benefits should pay attention to this judicial race and consider candidates' positions on healthcare and senior protections, since a single justice's decisions can establish precedents affecting seniors for decades.
aol.com
· 2026-04-05
An 82-year-old Chicago resident received 552 robocalls in a single month, forcing him to disable his phone entirely to escape the constant harassment—a problem affecting millions of Americans who collectively received over 3.8 billion robocalls in February 2026 alone. While some robocalls are legitimate (appointment reminders, pharmacy notifications), about 58% are telemarketing or scams designed to trick people into revealing personal information or sending money. To protect yourself, experts recommend using robocall-blocking apps, registering with the National Do Not Call Registry, and being skeptical of unsolicited calls asking for personal or financial information.
foxbusiness.com
· 2026-03-26
# Summary
CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz warned that foreign nationals, including members of Russian organized crime, may be operating fraudulent hospice schemes, with an estimated 1,000 of Los Angeles County's approximately 2,000 hospices potentially involved in fraud. California Governor Gavin Newsom's office disputed the claims, citing that the state has revoked over 280 hospice licenses in the past two years, has a moratorium on new licenses since 2021, and has brought 109 criminal charges and 24 civil fraud cases through its multi-agency task force. The dispute has escalated into legal action, with Newsom filing a civil rights complaint against Oz
hospicenews.com
· 2026-03-19
hans middendorp / Pexels
Hundreds of hospices are allegedly operating from a single address in California amid regulators’ efforts to curb fraud in the state.
Local providers lau...
henricocitizen.com
· 2026-03-18
Dear Savvy Senior,My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now?-...
shorelinemedia.net
· 2026-03-12
Dear Savvy Senior,
My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now...
thelundreport.org
· 2026-03-11
A Republican-led congressional committee looking into potential fraud in the publicly funded health care program for lower-income people is expanding their investigation to Oregon ...
lakecountyexam.com
· 2026-03-10
Dear Savvy Senior,
My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now...
newstalkkgvo.com
· 2026-03-07
Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On March 4, 2026, Attorney General Austin Knudsen announced that a Big Horn County woman received a 10-year deferred imposition of sentence and was or...
americanbanker.com
· 2026-03-07
An elderly man with dementia was systematically drained of $337,000 in a sophisticated, Cyprus-based "romance scam" that some banks failed to stop — and instead are retaining high-...
einpresswire.com
· 2026-03-06
HELENA – A Big Horn County woman received a 10-year deferred imposition of sentence and was ordered to pay $101,171 in restitution for financially exploiting her mother and stepfat...
va.gov
· 2026-02-27
By Melanie Nelson, Public Affairs Officer
February 26, 2026
In today’s digital world, you are more likely to have your identity stolen than your car stolen or your home burglariz...
boothbayregister.com
· 2026-02-21
People over 50 are particularly vulnerable to fraud, with over $11 million reported in scams during just a nine-month period in 2025, according to a presentation by Coastal Maine Regional Broadband and local police. Most scams involve impostors contacting victims through email, text, or phone with urgent messages designed to cloud judgment, sometimes building fake relationships over time to gain trust. To protect yourself, experts recommend verifying unexpected contacts directly with the person, avoiding clicking links or sharing passwords, watching for language errors and mismatched email addresses, and declining friend requests from people already in your network.
fox44news.com
· 2026-02-21
The Brenham Police Department is warning about multiple scams targeting elderly residents, including impersonation calls from government agencies, fake tech support, romance scams, and fake lottery winnings. Red flags include pressure to act quickly, requests for gift cards or wire transfers, demands for personal information, and instructions to keep the matter secret. To protect yourself, slow down before acting, never share personal details over the phone or online, verify requests by calling organizations directly, and consult with family or trusted friends before sending money—and report suspected scams to local police, Adult Protective Services, or the FTC.
press-herald.com
· 2026-02-13
# Romance Fraud Alert: What You Need to Know
Romance scams have surged dramatically, with IRS Criminal Investigation cases more than tripling in the past year, particularly targeting older Americans and vulnerable individuals seeking connection. Victims often lose significant portions of their life savings or retirement funds through criminals posing as romantic partners on dating sites and social media, sometimes also using compromising photos for blackmail. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly escalate to requests for money, never send compromising photos to people you haven't met in person, verify identities through video calls, and report suspected fraud to authorities or the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-372-8311.
khaborwala.com
· 2026-02-08
A recent investigation in China has exposed widespread fraud at private psychiatric hospitals in central cities like Xiangyang and Yichang, where operators admitted vulnerable elderly patients and people with addiction issues under false pretenses to fraudulently claim government medical insurance reimbursements while providing little actual care. These facilities, which functioned more as unregulated shelters than hospitals, subjected patients to poor conditions, abuse, and forced unpaid labor, revealing serious gaps in China's elder care system and healthcare oversight during a time of rapid population aging. To protect themselves, people should be cautious about hospital admissions that seem unusually inexpensive, verify that facilities are properly licensed and regulated, and report suspected fraud to local health authorities or insurance regulators.
cslea.com
· 2026-02-07
# Hospice Fraud Summary
Seven people in Monterey County, including hospice owners and medical professionals, were arrested in February 2025 for defrauding Medi-Cal and Medicare by enrolling patients who weren't terminally ill in hospice services without proper consent or knowledge. The defendants operated three hospice companies simultaneously and transferred patients between facilities every six months to avoid detection while continuing to bill the programs fraudulently. To protect yourself, verify that any hospice enrollment is appropriate for your condition, ask questions about your medical status and enrollment, and report suspected healthcare fraud to your state's attorney general or health department.
prlog.org
· 2026-02-05
A veteran detective with 25 years of fraud investigation experience has published a new guide to help seniors, families, and caregivers protect themselves from scams that cost older Americans billions of dollars annually. The book covers common threats like phone scams, romance scams, identity theft, and newer AI-driven impersonation schemes, while emphasizing that elder fraud exploits trust, fear, and isolation. Readers are advised to recognize red flags, safeguard personal information, build family protection plans, and report suspected fraud without shame—with the book providing checklists and step-by-step guidance for taking action.
record-eagle.com
· 2026-02-05
Modern scammers are using AI-generated voice clones to impersonate family members and target seniors with convincing "grandparent scams," as illustrated by a case where a 74-year-old woman nearly fell victim to a fraudster impersonating her grandson. Unlike traditional scams, these high-tech schemes use publicly available social media content to create nearly perfect replicas of loved ones' voices, making them extremely difficult for even savvy seniors to detect. To protect yourself, verify unexpected requests for money by contacting family members directly through known phone numbers, be cautious about what personal videos you share online, and stay skeptical of urgent requests that discourage you from telling others.
wspa.com
· 2026-02-04
Scammers are increasingly targeting seniors with fraudulent Medicare calls to steal personal information and commit identity theft, with one woman discovering nearly $11,000 in fraudulent medical claims on her account. Rather than relying on third-party apps that may compromise your privacy, experts recommend using the built-in spam-blocking features on your phone (iPhone and Android) combined with your cell provider's call-blocking tools, which now use AI technology to effectively filter out scam calls. To maximize protection, make sure your phone's operating system is up-to-date before enabling these native blocking features.
cnhi.com
· 2026-02-04
Scammers are increasingly using AI-generated voice clones and deepfake technology to impersonate loved ones and government officials, targeting older Americans with devastating results. In 2024 alone, seniors lost nearly $4.9 billion to fraud—a 43% increase from the previous year—with victims over 60 losing an average of $83,000 compared to $19,000 for younger victims. To protect yourself, verify requests for money by contacting family members directly through known phone numbers, be skeptical of emotional urgency or requests for secrecy, and hang up and independently confirm the caller's identity before sending any funds.
sg.finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-02-03
# Medicare Scams Targeting Older Adults
Medicare beneficiaries are experiencing a surge in fraud attempts, with scammers using professional-sounding calls and urgent threats to steal personal information and Medicare numbers or bill for unnecessary services like medical equipment, genetic testing, and supplies never prescribed or received. The scams often impersonate Medicare officials or insurance representatives, using pressure tactics and false warnings about losing benefits to rush victims into sharing sensitive information. To protect yourself, remember that Medicare will never call you—hang up on unexpected calls, never share personal information over the phone, and verify any requests by contacting Medicare directly through their official phone number.
avenuemail.in
· 2026-02-02
—it describes a community event in Jamshedpur where the Helping Hands Foundation celebrated senior citizens through performances and activities. While the event did include a cyber fraud awareness session led by police to educate elderly participants about digital safety, the main focus was on promoting respect, dignity, and inclusion for older adults. The actionable takeaway for seniors is to attend awareness programs about online fraud protection and take seriously the digital safety education offered by local law enforcement.
foxnews.com
· 2026-01-31
# Hospice Fraud Summary
Fraudulent hospice providers in Los Angeles County are allegedly stealing $3.5 billion from Medicare by billing for fake patients, unnecessary services, and poor care, with some operators even enrolling seniors without their knowledge. According to Dr. Mehmet Oz and California's Attorney General, the problem has grown into an "epidemic," enabled by lax oversight that allows individuals to own unlimited hospices and even apply from overseas. To protect yourself, verify any hospice enrollment directly with Medicare, ask your doctor about your care plan, and report suspicious billing or unsolicited hospice enrollment to your state's attorney general.
hospicenews.com
· 2026-01-28
California has revoked over 280 fraudulent hospice licenses in the past two years as part of a crackdown on schemes where operators enrolled Medicare patients in hospice care without their knowledge or proper services, potentially costing billions in taxpayer money. The fraud affected vulnerable elderly patients across multiple states including Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Georgia, and Ohio, with some operators using illegal tactics like "license flipping" to avoid regulatory oversight. Patients and their families should verify hospice provider legitimacy through state licensing boards and Medicare's official resources, and report suspicious enrollment or lack of services to federal authorities immediately.
gov.ca.gov
· 2026-01-27
California has been actively combating hospice fraud for years through a moratorium on new licenses, state investigations, and arrests, while the Trump administration has simultaneously defunded federal oversight of an industry that receives over $25 billion annually from Medicare. Patients and taxpayers have been vulnerable to fraud in hospice care, which is supposed to be rooted in compassion rather than profit-driven corruption. If you suspect hospice fraud, you can report it to the California Department of Justice, which has dedicated resources and educational initiatives to help affected individuals and families.
njoag.gov
· 2026-01-26
Two women—a health center owner and her employee—have been charged with health care fraud for allegedly performing medical procedures without proper licenses at a women's health center in New Jersey. Medicaid patients were affected, as the defendants allegedly billed the program for services provided by unlicensed individuals, diverting resources meant for legitimate medical care. To protect yourself, verify that any healthcare provider treating you is properly licensed, ask about credentials before receiving care, and report suspected unlicensed medical practitioners to your state's health department or attorney general's office.
losalamosreporter.com
· 2026-01-25
A former New Mexico State Police officer, Morgan Ortiz, was sentenced to the maximum three years in prison for his role in a fraudulent substance abuse recovery program scheme that defrauded Medicaid of hundreds of thousands of dollars through identity theft, document falsification, and unlicensed medical practice. The defendants were ordered to pay $1.5 million in restitution to compensate taxpayers and patients who were harmed by the scheme. This case serves as a reminder that healthcare fraud targeting public programs carries serious criminal penalties, and patients should verify that recovery program providers are legitimate and properly licensed.
mondaq.com
· 2026-01-24
The Trump administration announced plans in January 2026 to create a new Department of Justice division dedicated to fighting fraud nationwide, led by a new Assistant Attorney General who would report directly to the White House rather than following post-Watergate norms of DOJ independence. The division would target fraud affecting federal programs, benefits, businesses, nonprofits, and private citizens, though the announcement left unclear how it would avoid duplicating existing DOJ fraud enforcement efforts and what resources it would receive. While the expanded focus on fraud enforcement could benefit victims, the unusual White House oversight of the division raises questions about whether political considerations might influence how fraud cases are prioritized and prosecuted.
vindy.com
· 2026-01-23
# Medicare Fraud Summary
Medicare loses an estimated $100 billion annually to fraud and abuse, with schemes ranging from double-billing and charging for services never performed to identity theft using seniors' account numbers. Seniors are urged to carefully review their Medicare statements for unfamiliar charges and report any suspicious activity to the Medicare fraud center at 1-800-633-4227, which can issue a new account number to prevent future fraudulent billings.
tribtoday.com
· 2026-01-23
# Medicare Fraud Summary
Medicare loses an estimated $100 billion annually to fraud and abuse, with scammers ranging from dishonest medical providers billing for services never performed to criminals using seniors' account numbers to file false claims. Medicare beneficiaries can protect themselves by carefully reviewing their Medicare statements when they arrive and calling the Medicare fraud hotline at 1-800-633-4227 if they spot suspicious charges, which may result in a new account number to prevent further fraudulent activity.
messagemedia.co
· 2026-01-23
# Fraud and Scams Summary
Minnesota Aging Pathways is offering a free online presentation on February 11 to educate people about fraud and scams, particularly targeting older adults who are increasingly vulnerable to these schemes. The presentation will cover fraud prevention strategies, how to detect and report fraudulent activity, and ways to protect personal information, with information provided by the Senior Medicare Patrol program. Interested participants can register for the free Zoom class by visiting the Eventbrite link or calling 800-333-2433.
attorneygeneral.gov
· 2026-01-22
Pennsylvania's Attorney General Dave Sunday reported major law enforcement achievements in his first year, including the seizure of 539 illegal firearms and over 56 million fentanyl doses worth an estimated $58 million. The office also launched new initiatives to protect seniors from financial abuse and expanded efforts against organized retail crime. Residents can protect themselves by staying vigilant against scams targeting older adults and being aware of the growing threats posed by illegal drugs and firearms in their communities.
arnoldporter.com
· 2026-01-22
The Trump administration announced plans in January 2026 to create a new DOJ division focused on fighting fraud affecting government programs, businesses, and citizens, led by a presidentially appointed Assistant Attorney General reporting directly to the White House. However, officials have provided conflicting details about the division's structure, resources, and how it will avoid duplicating existing DOJ fraud enforcement efforts, leaving significant questions unanswered. While the administration emphasized recent prosecutions of immigrants accused of benefit fraud in Minnesota, consumers should remain vigilant about fraud targeting them directly and report suspected fraud to the FTC or their local law enforcement.
yahoo.com
· 2026-01-17
# Top Scams to Watch for in 2026
According to the Better Business Bureau, online shopping scams (particularly fake websites selling pets or hard-to-find items), phishing emails and texts impersonating banks or government agencies, and fake job offers—including AI-powered interviews—are among the most common fraud schemes affecting consumers this year. These scams target anyone making online purchases or responding to unsolicited communications, and scammers often use urgency and impersonation tactics to trick victims into giving up money or personal information. To protect yourself, take time to verify websites and companies independently before providing any information or making payments, as scammers rely on rushed decisions.
abc7chicago.com
· 2026-01-17
According to the Better Business Bureau, the top scams in 2026 include online shopping fraud (fake websites), phishing emails and texts impersonating banks or government agencies, and employment scams offering fake work-from-home jobs. These scams affect anyone shopping online or using email and can result in stolen money, personal information, or identity theft. To protect yourself, the BBB advises taking time to verify websites independently and avoiding clicking links in unsolicited messages, since scammers rely on creating urgency to trick victims.
moneytalksnews.com
· 2026-01-15
Scammers are impersonating the Social Security Administration and Medicare using fake official-looking letters claiming beneficiaries received improper payments or overpaid premiums, then pressuring them to immediately provide banking information or send money via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. These sophisticated schemes exploit confusion around government programs and prey on seniors' fears about losing benefits through "clawbacks." The best protection is knowing that Social Security and Medicare never contact beneficiaries about overpayments via email, text, or unsolicited mail—legitimate billing issues follow a formal process—so anyone receiving such communications should independently verify with official government agencies rather than responding to the fraudulent letters.
nypost.com
· 2026-01-14
New York taxpayers are spending $400 million annually on Adult Social Day Care centers that are largely unregulated and potentially exploiting Medicaid by serving relatively healthy seniors instead of those with serious disabilities. These facilities charge the state up to $85 per meal for lunch that costs $7-12 at local restaurants, while providing minimal services beyond meals and basic activities like ping pong, and the vague state requirements for "nutrition" and "socialization" go largely unenforced. To protect themselves, taxpayers should demand greater oversight and stricter eligibility verification for Medicaid-funded services, and state officials should clarify and enforce the eligibility standards that restrict these centers to seniors with documented chronic illnesses or disabilities.
vermontbiz.com
· 2026-01-13
Vermont saw a 12% increase in scam reports in 2025, with 3,982 reports filed to the state Attorney General's office, with computer tech support scams continuing to dominate (over 25% of cases) alongside rising debt collection and government imposter scams, particularly targeting SNAP benefit recipients. Vermont residents should never respond to unsolicited calls, emails, or texts—especially those threatening legal action—and should instead verify suspicious requests by contacting trusted contacts or the Attorney General's Consumer Assistance Program directly. Free protection resources are available through the VT Scam Alert System, which has already enrolled roughly 9,000 residents to receive scam warnings.
wvnews.com
· 2026-01-13
Scammers are exploiting confusion about Medicare's 2026 prescription drug coverage changes to target seniors, taking advantage of lingering worries about outdated policies like the "donut hole." Seniors can protect themselves by learning the facts about new Medicare rules and contacting the New York State Senior Medicare Patrol (800-333-4374) if they suspect fraud, such as unauthorized plan enrollment or compromised Medicare numbers. Medicare fraud costs taxpayers over $60 billion annually, making awareness and reporting essential for seniors and caregivers.
prnewswire.com
· 2026-01-13
Scammers are targeting Medicare seniors by exploiting confusion about the 2026 prescription drug coverage changes, particularly the outdated "donut hole" concept that no longer exists. Seniors are being contacted by fraudsters using these Medicare rule changes as a pretext to steal personal information or enroll them in unauthorized plans. To protect yourself, verify any Medicare-related communications directly with official sources, never give your Medicare number to unsolicited callers, and report suspected fraud immediately to the New York State Senior Medicare Patrol at 800-333-4374 or nysenior.org.
floridapolitics.com
· 2026-01-10
—it's about Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appointing and reappointing five members to the Florida Gaming Control Commission, which oversees gambling regulation in the state. The appointees include Julie Brown (elevated to Chair), Peter Cuderman, and William Spicola as new members, with John Michael D'Aquila and Tina Repp returning to the board. All five appointees bring relevant experience in government, law, finance, and investigation to oversee Florida's gaming industry.