Scammers are Targeting Washington Seniors
Seniors across Washington are being targeted by scammers using phone calls, emails, online friendships, fake government threats, and hearing aid offers to steal money and personal information.
Scammers often sound official, friendly or urgent. They may pretend to be county employees, sheriff’s deputies, medical providers, jury officials, or even a new online friend. Their goal is the same: to pressure you into sending money or giving private information.
County Warning –
Do Not Pay by Phone or Email
County officials have warned residents about scammers pretending to be building permit staff or sheriff’s deputies. These scammers call or email asking for money for county fees or services.
Remember – county staff do not call or email asking for money.
County invoices are sent by U.S. Mail. Never give your bank, credit card, Social Security, or Medicare number to someone who calls or emails you unexpectedly.
Hearing Aid Scams
Scammers may offer “free hearing tests,” “today only” discounts, or claim Medicare will pay for everything. Some sell cheap sound amplifiers as expensive medical hearing aids.
Warning Signs
Someone pressures you to buy right away, refuses to give a written return policy, or asks for Medicare or banking information.
Online “New Friend” Scams
Scammers may pretend to be a new friend, romantic partner, military member, widowed professional, or contractor. They build trust, then ask for money.
They may say they need help with a medical emergency, travel problem, business issue, or package delivery.
Big Red Flag
If you have not met them in person, do not send money.
Real friends do not ask for gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash-app payments.
Phone Scams and Fear Tactics
Scammers may say:
“You missed jury duty.”
“You will be arrested.”
“Pay now to clear a warrant.”
“Give us your bank or Social Security number.”
Fact
No government agency will call and demand money or threaten arrest over the phone.
Protect Yourself
Stop. Think. Verify. Do not be rushed. Hang up. Delete suspicious emails. Call the agency, business, or county office directly using an official phone number.
Talk to a trusted family member, friend, or caregiver before sending money to anyone you met online.
Report Scams
Washington State Office of the Attorney General — Consumer Resource Center (800) 551-4636 Washington only, (206) 464-6684 local/out-of-state. Available Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Also report to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and, for local threats or impersonation calls, contact your local law enforcement nonemergency number.
If someone demands money — hang up. If someone asks for gift cards — it’s a scam. If a new online friend asks for money — don’t send it.
When in doubt — verify first.