Scams Targeting Seniors on the Rise in San Diego
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August 7, 2025 / Aging and Acceptance News
How Families Can Help Prevent Financial Losses
By Sarah O’Connor, Director, Heartfelt Care Agency
Published: August 7, 2025
A recent report from CBS8 News highlights a concerning trend. San Diego seniors lost nearly $70 million to financial scams in the first six months of 2025. If this pace continues, the year could surpass 2024’s record $98 million in losses. This is a sobering reminder of the risks older adults face in today’s increasingly digital world.
“It is heartbreaking for us to see case after case where a decent person who has worked hard all their lives calls the number and is taken in by a web of lies and deception,” said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan.
At Heartfelt Care Agency, we work closely with older adults and their families. We know that scam prevention is just as essential as fall prevention, medication safety, or nutrition. Financial abuse does not leave bruises, but it can be just as devastating in other ways. It can affect a senior’s financial security, personal confidence, and sense of trust.
Understanding the Most Common Scam: “Tech Support” Pop-Ups
The most reported fraud in San Diego this year is the tech support scam. In this scheme, victims receive alarming pop-up messages on their phones, tablets, or computers. The message claims the device has been compromised and instructs the user to call a phone number for help. That number connects them directly to a scammer.
“It says your device has been compromised… and they’ll help you fix it,” Stephan explained.
Once connected, scammers may convince the victim to share personal information, provide remote access to their device, or send large sums of money.
Why Older Adults Are Targeted
The CBS8 report noted several reasons older adults are more frequently targeted.
They often have substantial savings or retirement accounts. Many were raised to trust authority figures or polite strangers. Some may be less familiar with digital security warnings or fraud tactics. And most significantly, many hesitate to report these crimes out of embarrassment or self-blame.
As a home care agency, we have heard similar stories from our clients and their families. It is rarely about lack of intelligence. These scams are designed to sound convincing, urgent, and personal.
What You Can Do as a Family Member or Caregiver
We echo the advice shared by local law enforcement and the Elder Justice Task Force. Education and open communication are the best defenses.
Here are five steps families can take today
- Talk about scams openly with your loved one. These conversations are just as important as those about medications or fall risks.
- Explain that pop-up warnings or urgent calls about compromised devices are red flags.
- Encourage setting up trusted contacts on bank accounts and activating alerts for unusual activity.
- Post important phone numbers near common devices. These might include the AARP Fraud Watch Helpline at 877-908-3360.
- Remind your loved one that reporting fraud is not something to be ashamed of. As Stephan said in the article, “The shame lies with these terrible scammers… Please report it, because that’s the only way we can prevent the next person from becoming a victim.”
Our Role as a Home Care Agency
While we are not cybersecurity experts, our care team is often the first to notice when something does not seem right. It could be an unexpected phone call, a confused client, or an unfamiliar transaction. We take these signs seriously and communicate closely with families to keep clients safe and informed.
For clients living with memory loss or cognitive decline, we support families in building routines that reduce the risk of financial exploitation. That might include setting up phone screening, monitoring mail, or simplifying access to accounts.
Final Thoughts
Although scams are becoming more sophisticated, so is public awareness. The collaboration between local law enforcement, the FBI, and community agencies is a positive sign. At Heartfelt Care Agency, we are proud to be part of the solution. We help families navigate both the visible and invisible risks that can affect aging at home.
If you are concerned about a loved one being targeted, or want to learn how to start a conversation around fraud prevention, we are here to help. There is no shame in asking questions or setting up extra safeguards.
To learn more about how we support senior safety at home, contact Heartfelt Care Agency for guidance and resources.
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