Silver Watchdogs checklist
Before you act: scam warning signs
- They contacted me first, by phone, text, email, or at the door.
- They are rushing me or scaring me.
- They want gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash.
- They ask for my Social Security, Medicare, or bank numbers.
- They say to keep it secret.
If any box is checked: stop. Hang up. Do not click links. Call the company or agency yourself, using a number you know is real.
Looking into something: steps
- Pick one small, specific thing.
- Gather public records (official websites, or ask the clerk).
- Ask Grok Bot clear questions. Never share private numbers.
- Open the sources yourself and write down what, where, and the date.
- Ask: is there an innocent explanation?
- Still wrong? Report it to the proper office. Never post accusations online.
Phone numbers and websites
| National Elder Fraud Hotline (age 60+) | 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) Mon to Fri, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern |
| AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline | 877-908-3360 Mon to Fri, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern |
| Senior Medicare Patrol (Medicare fraud) | 877-808-2468 |
| GAO FraudNet (federal money) | 1-800-424-5454 |
| Do Not Call Registry | 1-888-382-1222 (call from the phone to add) |
| Scam text messages | Forward to 7726 (SPAM) |
| Report a scam to the FTC | ReportFraud.ftc.gov |
| Emergency | 911 |
From SilverWatchdogs.com. Free educational information, not legal advice. Not a government website. Numbers checked October 2026.