Common Scam Questions, Answered — Real questions seniors ask us, with clear answers in plain language. Search below, or tap any question to see the answer.

Almost certainly a scam. The IRS and Social Security first contact you by mail, and they never demand immediate payment by phone, threaten arrest, or ask for gift cards. Hang up. If you're unsure, call the agency using the number on its official website — not the number that called you. Learn more →

Scammers “spoof” local numbers so you'll pick up. If you don't recognize it, let it go to voicemail — a real caller will leave a message you can return safely. Learn more →

Pressing any key tells scammers your number is active and connects you to a live scammer. Don't press anything — just hang up. Learn more →

Be very suspicious and don't click. Open your web browser and type the company's real website yourself, or paste the link into our free Scam Checker to test it first. Learn more →

This is a common scam (called “smishing”). Delivery companies don't text random links asking for fees or details. Don't click — track packages only on the official website or app. Learn more →

No. Gift cards are for gifts, never for payments. Any request to pay a bill, fine, or fee with gift cards, a wire transfer, or cryptocurrency is a scam — every time. Learn more →

No — this is a scam. No real bank or government agency will ever ask you to move your money to a “safe” or “government” account. Hang up and call your bank using the number on your card. Learn more →

Don't send money. Romance scammers spend weeks building trust, then invent an emergency. If you've never met in person and they ask for money or gift cards, it's a scam — no matter how real it feels. Learn more →

Yes. A credit freeze is free and one of the strongest protections you can set up — it stops thieves from opening new accounts in your name. See our Protect Yourself Toolkit for the simple steps. Learn more →

Freeze your credit (free), change the passwords on your important accounts, and keep an eye on your statements. Our identity theft guide walks you through recovery step by step. Learn more →

Act quickly. Stop all contact with the scammer, call your bank, change your passwords, and report it. You can call the free Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311 any time. Our Report page lists every step. Learn more →

It may not be — speed matters. Contact your bank or the payment company immediately; some transfers can be stopped or reversed if you act fast. Report it right away so others are protected too. Learn more →