AARP Pennsylvania Advises on Top Scams Older Adults Need to Avoid in 2026

AARP Pennsylvania: Stay Vigilant Against Scams in 2026

As we usher in the new year, AARP Pennsylvania is sounding the alarm for residents, especially older adults, about a slew of scams expected to rise in 2026. These scams, as noted by fraud experts, have not only become increasingly sophisticated but are also exploiting the unsteady financial landscape that many individuals are currently facing, alongside the rapid growth of technology.

According to recent insights from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), losses attributed to impersonation scams within the senior demographic have seen a staggering rise. In just four years, reported losses among adults aged 60 and above surged from $55 million in 2020 to an astonishing $445 million by 2024. Experts expect that the integration of artificial intelligence in nefarious activities will make scams even more challenging to identify and thwart in the upcoming year.

Here are the five prevalent scams that AARP Pennsylvania anticipates will pose the greatest threat to older adults this year:

1. Employment Scams

Scammers are concocting fake job postings and posing as recruiters, often demanding upfront fees or sensitive personal information. These deceitful tactics prey on those seeking work, especially in economically turbulent times, making it crucial for job seekers to verify information before proceeding.

2. Recovery Scams

In the wake of financial losses, fraudsters may approach victims posing as law enforcement or consumer advocates, claiming they can help recover lost funds for a fee. Such scams can be particularly misleading as they exploit the victim's desperate situation to extract further money.

3. Digital Arrest Scams

A more unsettling method, digital arrest scams involve fraudsters impersonating law enforcement officials who claim to have arrested the victim, often using threats during video calls to extort money from them. This tactic relies heavily on fear and intimidation and can be distressing for those unaware of the scam.