Free Community Resource

Don't let them take your money.

Scammers are targeting our seniors right now. Know the signs, take one step, and get help before it is too late.

Get the Free Flyers

Free to download, print, and share with anyone you love.

Recognize It

Know the Signs

Scammers are sophisticated, organized, and experienced. Falling for one has nothing to do with intelligence or wisdom. Here is what to watch for.

1
Someone you just met is asking you to invest money or pay upfront to get money back. Real investment opportunities do not require upfront payments from strangers.
2
They say you must decide right now and tell you not to talk to your family first. Pressure and secrecy are the scammer's most powerful tools. Legitimate offers give you time to think.
3
They want cash, gift cards, wire transfers, or Zelle. They will not accept a check or credit card. These payment methods cannot be traced or reversed. Real businesses accept checks and credit cards.

Stay Informed

How They Target You

These are the three most common scams targeting seniors right now. Recognize them before they reach your door.

🏛️

Imposter Scams

Someone pretends to be from the government, your bank, or a company. They claim there is a problem and ask for money or personal information to fix it.

🔨

Home Repair Scams

Someone shows up unannounced offering repairs or asks for full payment before the work begins. Then they do poor work, no work at all, or disappear entirely.

💻

Tech Support Scams

You get a call or pop-up saying your computer has a virus. They offer to fix it and then use that access to steal your money or personal information.

One Step This Week

Take Action

Call your bank and add a trusted contact.

A trusted contact is someone your bank can call if they ever think someone is stealing from you. It creates an automatic protection before the money is gone. Most people have never done this. It is one of the most powerful safeguards available and it costs nothing.

✓ Completely free ✓ Takes 10 minutes ✓ Works at any bank

Scammers are targeting our seniors. By the time family finds out, the money is already gone. A trusted contact gives your bank someone to call before that happens.

We're Here

Get Help

If something already happened, or if you think it might be happening right now, call immediately. It is never too late to ask for help.

Chicago Area Resources

Chicago Senior Services (DFSS)
312-744-4016
IL Attorney General Fraud Line
1-800-243-5377

National Resources

National Elder Fraud Hotline (DOJ)
1-833-372-8311
AARP Fraud Watch Network aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork
1-877-908-3360
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reportfraud.ftc.gov
1-877-382-4357

If you think it's happening right now:

  • 1Stop the conversation immediately. Hang up or walk away.
  • 2Do not send money or share any personal information.
  • 3Call your bank using the number on the back of your card.
  • 4Call one of the hotlines listed here.
  • 5Tell a trusted person such as a family member, pastor, or neighbor.

Free Resources

Download & Share

All materials are free to download, print, and distribute. Share them with someone you love: a parent, a neighbor, a church member, or anyone who needs to see this.

Chicago Area

Don't Let Them Take Your Money

Three warning signs, the trusted contact action step, and local Chicago phone numbers. Best for South Side churches, senior centers, and ward offices.

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Nationwide

Don't Let Them Take Your Money

Same warning signs and action step with national hotline numbers. Best for sharing outside Chicago or on social media where your reach extends beyond the city.

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Chicago Area

Know the Signs and How They Target You

A combined guide covering both warning signs and the three most common scam types, with local Chicago resources. Best for community events and health fairs.

Download Flyer ↓
Nationwide

Know the Signs and How They Target You

Same combined guide with national hotline numbers. Best for broad community distribution and organizations serving seniors across a wide area.

Download Flyer ↓
Comprehensive Guide

Protect Yourself. Protect Your Peace of Mind.

A full guide covering six scam types, six protective tips, the trusted contact step, and national resources. Works for every senior in every community.

Download Flyer ↓

All flyers print best at 8.5x11 inches. Questions or bulk requests: info@protectourseniors.org