How to avoid criminal schemes targeting seniors in the U.S. [Video]

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – A newly released FBI report highlights the staggering criminal schemes targeting seniors in the U.S.

According to the report, Americans over the age of 60 became victims of elder-crimes more frequently last year than during any other year, accounting for an estimated $3.4 billion dollars in reported losses.

Reports of criminal schemes targeting seniors went up by 14% between 2022 and 2023.

Federal investigators warn that “investment scams” are the costliest, enticing seniors into transferring money to fraudulent financial institutions.

101,000 complaints of fraud against seniors were filed to federal law enforcement in 2023, the most of any age group throughout the country.

There 5,920 seniors who lost more than $100,000 dollars.

FBI officials are urging financial institutions to do more to prevent seniors from following through on these money transfers.

There are also things you can do.

Caller IDs can be spoofed, so it’s important you know government agencies do not make unsolicited calls. When in doubt, experts recommend you hang …