A frantic phone call comes in late at night.
“Mom, I’m in trouble. I need money right now.”
The voice sounds exactly like your child or grandchild. The caller may even know personal details. Sometimes there’s a video call showing a familiar face in distress. But it isn’t your loved one.
It’s an AI-powered scam — and it’s growing rapidly, especially targeting older adults.
Criminals now use artificial intelligence to clone voices and create realistic videos using only small amounts of publicly available audio or images — often pulled from social media. These scams are sometimes called:
The goal is always the same: create urgency and fear so victims act before verifying. Common scenarios include claims that a loved one:
Scammers often instruct victims to send money via wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps — methods that are difficult to trace or reverse.
In the past, scam calls were easier to spot. Today, AI technology can:
✔️ Mimic tone, speech patterns, and emotional inflection
✔️ Produce realistic background noise
✔️ Generate convincing video “deepfakes”
✔️ Personalize scripts using online information
✔️ Respond in real time during conversations
Even cautious, tech-savvy individuals can be fooled — especially when emotions are running high.
Scammers deliberately target seniors because they may:
But anyone can fall victim. These criminals are sophisticated and persistent.
Encourage your loved ones to pause if they hear:
If something feels off, it probably is.
Establish a private code word or phrase that only close family members know. In an emergency, a legitimate caller should be able to provide it.
This single step can stop many scams instantly.
Never rely on the incoming call. Instead, hang up and call your loved one directly using a saved contact number.
Fraudsters rely on panic. Taking even a few minutes to verify can break the scam.
Public posts showing birthdays, travel plans, schools, and family relationships make impersonation easier. Review privacy settings regularly.
Many victims feel embarrassed and stay silent. Regular conversations normalize caution and empower seniors to question suspicious requests.
Financial exploitation is one of the biggest threats to older adults’ independence and long-term security. A single successful scam can:
In severe cases, victims may even face guardianship proceedings if funds needed for care disappear. Proactive planning can help safeguard against this risk.
A well-designed estate plan can include safeguards such as:
Equally important is choosing the right people — individuals who are both trustworthy and attentive.
Isolation increases vulnerability. Regular contact from family members, neighbors, faith communities, and caregivers dramatically reduces the risk of fraud. Simple check-ins can make all the difference.
If you receive a distressing call or video from a loved one asking for money:
Pause. Verify. Protect.
No legitimate emergency requires secrecy and immediate payment through unusual methods. Technology may be evolving — but so can our awareness. By staying informed and prepared, families can protect not only their finances, but their peace of mind and long-term security.
Ready to plan? Book a call today.
