In October 2023, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) released information indicating an increase in reports of government imposter scam calls, including some claiming to be from Eldercare Locator, a resource that helps connect older adults and people with disabilities with resources in their community. In response, ACL issued a Fraud Alert with some reminders to share with targeted populations, along with some general tips.
Reminders to share:
- The government will never call out of the blue and ask for a Social Security number.
- The government will never ask for payment by gift card or wire transfer.
- Social Security numbers cannot be suspended.
General tips:
- If you are ever suspicious about a call, hang up immediately. Find the organization’s contact information on your own (don’t use caller ID), and call or email them directly to discuss the situation.
- Never give out your Social Security number, banking information, or Medicare number to anyone who contacts you through unsolicited calls, texts, or emails.
- Never pay someone you do not know well via gift card or wire transfer.
- Never click on an email link or attachment, unless you fully trust the sender.
- Sign up for the National Do Not Call Registry.
Read the full email here: Fraud Alert: Scam Calls Targeting Older Adults
If you are interested in receiving other ACL alerts, subscribe to ACL emails.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living, “Fraud Alert: Scam Calls Targeting Older Adults,” email to ACL Updates listserv, October 30, 2023.
