The holiday season is a wonderful time of year, but it also brings a noticeable uptick in scam attempts. Scammers know people are juggling a lot—shopping, travel, family plans, and they use that distraction to their advantage. They also know many of you are feeling generous this time of year, which makes fake charities and “urgent” requests more effective. It’s normal for people to feel unsure about strange calls or emails they’re receiving. And to be clear, there is no shame in that. These scams are incredibly sophisticated. They’re designed to trick smart, experienced people. Our goal this month is simple: help you stay one step ahead, and remind you that we are right here if something ever feels “off.”
Why Scams Target Seniors
As you know, retirees and older adults tend to be targeted more often. Not because of lack of experience—usually the opposite. It’s because scammers focus on people who’ve worked a lifetime to build up savings. They know this is where the money is. They also prey on trust. It’s very common to want to assume the best in people. Unfortunately, scammers know that, too. And finally, even small changes in how we process information as we age can make high-pressure tactics harder to spot in the moment. That’s normal, and it’s also why we’re having this conversation.
Common Scams We’re Seeing Right Now
Holiday Charity Scams This is one we really want you to watch for. Scammers copy well known charities or spoof phone numbers so it sounds legitimate. They tell emotional stories and use urgency to get you to give on the spot. If you ever feel rushed, stop. Real charities will happily give you time to check them out.
Tech Support Scams
These start with a pop-up or a call claiming your device is infected. The goal is simple: get access to your computer or accounts. Here’s the rule: If you didn’t reach out for tech support, don’t trust the person who contacted you. No legitimate company operates this way.
Government Impersonators
These scare tactics usually claim you owe taxes, your Social Security is frozen, or your bank account is compromised. If there’s any threat of arrest or “immediate action,” it’s a scam. Government agencies do not work this way.
Family Emergency Scams
These have unfortunately surged with AI voice cloning. The “grandchild in trouble” scam sounds more real now than it ever has. Whenever someone claims to be a family member needing fast money, pause and verify with another family member. Emergencies can withstand a callback.
Romance Scams
These scammers build trust slowly, often over many months, and only later begin asking for money. If anyone you’ve never met in person, or just recently met, asks for financial help, it could be a scam.
“Free Lunch” Seminars
While some are educational, many are designed to sell products that pay high commissions to the speaker—not necessarily to benefit you. If you ever want a second opinion on something presented to you, we are happy to review it.
Tools
That Truly Help Protect You Add a Trusted Contact We cannot emphasize how valuable this is. A trusted contact gives us someone to call if something doesn’t look right or if we can’t reach you. They cannot make changes to your account—they simply help us protect you. If you’re not sure who to choose as a trusted contact, we’re happy to talk through it with you.
Slow Everything Down
Scammers hate this. The moment you slow the conversation, the pressure tactics fall apart. A simple phrase that works: “I don’t make financial decisions without talking to my advisor first.” Say it as many times as you need.
Reduce Unwanted Solicitations
Less junk contact equals fewer scam attempts. You can remove your name from most mailing or calling lists, and it really does make a difference.
Stay Connected
One of the hardest parts of fraud is the emotional side. Victims often feel embarrassed and pull back socially. This is exactly what scammers want. Staying socially connected—with family, friends, and yes, with us—reduces your risk.
How We Help Protect You As your advisor and as a fiduciary, part of our job is to be an extra set of eyes and ears. That means:
- Noticing when something in your instructions seems out of character
- Asking follow-up questions to make sure requests truly reflect your intentions
- Helping you review suspicious emails, letters, or offers
- Encouraging strong account protections like multifactor authentication and trusted contacts
- Being available when you need a gut check When something doesn’t feel right, please reach out. We would rather hear from you ten times about things that end up being nothing than hear from you once after something has gone wrong.
If You Suspect Fraud in New Hampshire Here are your best resources locally:
- NH Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Bureau
- For scams, impersonators, charity fraud, and deceptive business practices. https://www.doj.nh.gov/consumer
- NH Banking Department
- For concerns related to financial institutions operating in the state: https://www.nh.gov/banking Local law enforcement can also be contacted if you believe someone has attempted or committed financial exploitation.
- And of course, we are always available to speak with you.
References Chen, R. (2025). Addressing clients’ cognitive decline: Regulatory responsibilities and measures to mitigate risk. Kitces.com. FINRA Investor Education Foundation. (2020). Fighting fraud 101: Smart tips for investors. FINRA. (2020). “Free lunch” investment seminars: Perform a careful review to avoid heartburn. FINRA. (2022). Protecting seniors from financial exploitation. FINRA Investor Education Foundation. (n.d.). It’s not your fault: Empowerment after financial fraud.
