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Fighting the Latest Scams
Stay alert to stay safe!
From the July 2025 Issue of THE CAIRN STONE
Contributed by Pam Crawford, Communications Volunteer
Scams are no longer just an occasional nuisance — they’re part of everyday life. And they’re getting harder to recognize. Cybercriminals are becoming more and more sophisticated, so it is vitally important to be aware of their ploys, pleadings, and posturing. Tamara Cote, who serves as Director of Information Technology at the Agency, explains, “There are no age barriers. It’s not a question of if you’ll be targeted, but when.” That’s why it’s so important to learn how to spot a scam before it can do harm.
Scammers often rely on urgency, fear, or even flattery to trick people into handing over money or personal information. According to Jeannie Fox, Manager of Community Resources and Education at the Agency, recent scams have become more invasive
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and convincing. From phony Medicare calls and fake highway toll notices to prize offers, romance scams, and gift card demands, the tactics change frequently — but the goal is always the same: to catch you off guard.
At home and online, many of these scams show up in the form of emails, texts, or phone calls. Some pretend to be from familiar sources — like a government agency, tech support, or even a loved one. Others may use advanced tools, like artificial intelligence, to mimic real voices or email addresses. These impersonators may ask you to confirm account details, click a suspicious link, or act fast before “time runs out.”
But here’s the key: you are in control.
If something feels off, trust that feeling. Take a moment and breathe. Scammers rely on a quick emotional reaction — fear, panic, or urgency — to push people into acting without thinking. “The best thing you can do is slow down,” Fox advises. “Ask yourself: Does this make sense? Was I expecting this message? Would this person or company normally ask for this kind of information?”
If you're unsure, don’t respond. Don’t click the link. Don’t answer the question. And don’t be afraid to end a phone conversation. It's perfectly okay to say, “I need to think about this,” or simply hang up.
It’s also smart to check the source. Look closely at the email address or phone number – scam texts often come from a number with a foreign prefix (e.g., +63). Is it spelled correctly? Is the message overly urgent or oddly written? If someone is asking you to pay with gift cards, share personal information, or click on an unexpected link, it’s a red flag.
If you believe you’ve been scammed, don’t panic. You’re not alone — and it’s not your fault. Cote notes that the most important thing is to act quickly to begin any recovery steps. “Change your passwords immediately, contact your bank, and file a report. Many organizations, including the FBI and AARP, have helpful resources to guide you through the process.
Scammers are smart. They study what triggers fear, urgency, or hope — and they use it against people of all ages. But the more you know, the safer you’ll be. So next time something seems suspicious, remember: Trust your instincts. You don’t have to respond right away. You have time to check. You have a right to say no. And you are in control.
Want to learn more or stay updated on the latest scams?
Check out trusted resources like the FBI’s Scams & Safety page or the AARP Fraud Watch Network Watchdog Alert Handbook.
When you're online, a little knowledge and a hefty dose of skepticism are your best defenses. Use them wisely, and you should be a much tougher target for scammers.