Silver Watchdogs checklist

One page to print and keep by the phone.

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

  1. Pick one small, specific thing.
  2. Gather public records (official websites, or ask the clerk).
  3. Ask Grok Bot clear questions. Never share private numbers.
  4. Open the sources yourself and write down what, where, and the date.
  5. Ask: is there an innocent explanation?
  6. 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 Helpline877-908-3360
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 Registry1-888-382-1222 (call from the phone to add)
Scam text messagesForward to 7726 (SPAM)
Report a scam to the FTCReportFraud.ftc.gov
Emergency911

From SilverWatchdogs.com. Free educational information, not legal advice. Not a government website. Numbers checked October 2026.