KLAS: Experts advise seniors to guard against rising scams

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — More than 480,000 seniors in Nevada receive Social Security benefits, and experts emphasize the importance of safeguarding them from scams.

On Friday, Democratic Rep. Susie Lee hosted a presentation aimed at protecting seniors from scams by giving them advice on how to avoid fraudulent activity.

“We’ve made it very clear if you receive a phone call, or a text, or an email that is unsolicited asking for personal information, do not give it away,” Lee said.

According to data from AARP, in 2024, seniors lost a record $12.5 billion through scams and fraud, an increase of 25 percent from $10 billion in 2023.

“I had someone use my email address and send it to a friend saying that I needed Apple gift cards,” recounted Donna West. “It just looked like it came from me.”

West suggested that fellow seniors verify any electronic communications by having another person evaluate it to help assess the source

“Have somebody else look at it,” West suggested. “Don’t start clicking things right away.”

Lee said potential changes in the social security system could open up opportunities for scammers, citing the closure of one southern Nevada office.