Protecting Yourself and Loved Ones from Financial Fraud
Older Americans lost nearly $7.5 billion to financial scams in 2025, according to FBI data highlighted in a recent Colorado Public Radio (CPR) interview with Dr. Eric Chess, director of the Older Adult Financial Justice Coalition at the University of Denver. Older adults are often targeted because they tend to have greater financial assets. However, Chess emphasizes that scams affect people of all ages and that awareness remains one of the strongest tools for prevention.
Key Takeaways:
Anyone can be vulnerable to fraud. Scams affect people of all ages, not just older adults.
Scammers are constantly adapting. New schemes emerge regularly across phone, email, social media, and other platforms.
Slow down before making financial decisions. Urgency is often a warning sign of a scam.
Talk openly about scams. Honest conversations with family members can help reduce stigma and increase awareness.
For additional resources and information about fraud prevention, visit the Older Adult Financial Justice Coalition or read the full CPR interview.
