Adults 60+ report the highest losses to fraud — especially smishing (scam texts) and fake family emergencies. The fix isn't a lecture. It's one simple habit: paste before you panic.
The message to send your family group chat
Hey family — if you get a weird text about a package, bank alert, or IRS problem: DON'T tap the link. Paste the whole message into this free checker first: https://www.yoyosup.com/tools/scamcheck/ — takes 10 seconds, no app needed. Forward this to Mom and Dad 💛
Why seniors are targeted
- More likely to answer unknown texts politely
- May not recognize lookalike URLs (usps-deliver-fee.co)
- Scammers use fear: IRS arrest, grandchild in jail, package held
- AI voice clones now fake “grandma, I need bail money” calls
3 rules that actually stick
- Pause — urgency is the scammer's weapon. Wait 24 hours.
- Paste — use ScamCheck before clicking anything.
- Call back — use a number you look up yourself, not the one in the text.
Top scams hitting parents in 2026
- USPS / package delivery fee
- Bank Zelle fraud alert
- IRS arrest warrant threat
- “Grandchild in trouble” — always verify by calling the grandchild directly