SAN ANTONIO — Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is warning the public about phone scams and offering tips to protect personal information during the holiday season. Scammers target seniors and other vulnerable groups, including those who may be isolated, financially struggling, or unaware of common scam tactics.
- Be Cautious with Communications: Do not share personal or financial information via phone, email, or text. Verify the source before responding to any request.
- Secure Your Deliveries: Use package lockers, delivery instructions, or neighbor assistance to avoid unattended parcels.
- Stay Alert Online: Check URLs carefully before clicking, avoid deals that seem “too good to be true,” and use two-factor authentication for online accounts.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a scam or theft, contact local law enforcement or HSI to file a report.
The holidays should be a time for joy and connection — not for falling victim to scams and theft. HSI encourages everyone to share these tips with friends, family, and neighbors to ensure a safe and secure season for all generations.
HSI has identified several common phone & text scams targeting the elderly, including:
- Grandparent Scams: Scammers pose as a grandchild in distress, asking for immediate financial assistance.
- Charity Scams: Fraudsters pretend to represent charitable organizations, soliciting donations.
- Tech Support Scams: Scammers claim to be tech support agents, convincing seniors to grant access to their computers or pay for fake services.
- Banking Phone Scam: Be vigilant on people posing as banking officials to solicit for loans and other banking business. Be cautious when you receive text messages from banks asking for consumers to call in to obtain banking loans and or free money to open up account.
- Government Agency: Scammers are portraying themselves as law enforcement for example text scams pretending to be a delivery serviced or U.S. Customs with a package being held.
HSI recommends the following tips to protect against phone scams:
- Verify the Caller’s Identity: Hang up and contact the organization or family member directly using a known number.
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Never provide personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller’s identity.
- Be Skeptical of Urgent Requests: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt quick decisions. Take your time and verify the information.
- Report Suspicious Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, report it to HSI or local authorities immediately.
“It's crucial for families to talk to their loved ones about these types of scams and encourage them to report any suspicious activity,” said HSI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “Together, we can protect our seniors and ensure they have a safe and joyful holiday season.”
HSI is committed to safeguarding the community from fraud and encourages the public to stay vigilant. For more information on how to protect yourself from phone scams, visit the HSI website.