A Lesson in Impersonation Scams

A few months ago, my very own Grandfather fell victim to a massive impersonation scam.

The scammer sounded so official, rattling off numbers and threats. And no, he was not foreign sounding and boasted a very prominent southern accent. In a moment of panic, my Grandfather ended up sending them $2,000 worth of gift cards. Yes, gift cards! We called the police, but the money was gone, and his bank said they were not liable to cover the lost cash.

It was a bitter pill to swallow. But this isn’t just my story, it’s a story happening to countless families across the country. These impersonation scams, where someone pretends to be the IRS, a long-lost relative, or even a romantic interest, are designed to prey on our trust and exploit vulnerabilities.

Here’s the thing: it could have been any of us. Our elders, though often fiercely independent, can be especially susceptible. Maybe it’s their natural respect for authority figures, the loneliness that creeps in with age, or just the struggle to keep up with the ever-changing world of technology. A phishing email with a convincing logo or a scammers smooth talk on the phone can easily sound real.

That’s why I’m sharing this story. Because by talking openly about these scams, maybe we can protect someone else’s grandpa, grandma, aunt, or uncle. Let’s have those conversations. Explain the red flags, the tactics these scammers use. Encourage caution with phone calls and emails. Offer help with online tasks and spotting suspicious websites.

Together, let’s keep our loved ones safe. Because the truth is, these scams aren’t just about stolen money, they steal a little bit of trust, a little bit of peace of mind, and that’s something we can’t afford to lose.