How the BBB Senior Hotline Helps
Better Business Bureau- Senior Hotline
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Mar 10, 2026
Colorado - Colorado Springs
How the BBB Senior Hotline Helps
Colorado Springs has long been recognized as a welcoming community for retirees. With its breathtaking views of Pikes Peak, vibrant downtown culture, and strong network of healthcare and senior services, the city attracts thousands of older adults who want to enjoy their retirement years in a safe and supportive environment. Unfortunately, scammers often target seniors, making fraud prevention an increasingly important issue for families throughout El Paso County.
That’s where the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline plays a vital role. The hotline, supported by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), provides seniors with guidance, resources, and assistance when they encounter suspicious business practices, scams, or consumer concerns. Under the leadership of professionals like Mary Owens, the program helps protect older adults from financial exploitation while empowering them with the knowledge they need to make safe decisions.
For seniors in Colorado Springs and beyond, having access to a trusted consumer protection resource can make all the difference.
Why Seniors Are Often Targeted by Scammers
Older adults are frequently targeted by fraud schemes because scammers assume seniors may have retirement savings, stable income sources, or limited familiarity with newer digital scams.
Common fraud schemes targeting seniors include:
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Phone scams claiming to be government agencies
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Fake tech support calls
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Medicare or insurance fraud
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Investment scams
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Sweepstakes or lottery scams
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Online shopping fraud
These scams can lead to devastating financial losses and emotional distress.
The BBB Senior Hotline exists to provide a trusted resource where seniors can ask questions and report suspicious activity before becoming victims.
The Role of the Better Business Bureau
The Better Business Bureau has been helping consumers identify trustworthy businesses and avoid scams for more than a century. Its mission focuses on promoting ethical business practices and protecting consumers from fraudulent activity.
The BBB Senior Hotline specifically addresses issues affecting older adults by offering:
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Scam prevention education
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Assistance reporting fraud
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Consumer guidance
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Information about trustworthy businesses
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Resources for victims of scams
This support helps seniors feel confident when navigating purchases, services, and financial decisions.
Mary Owens of the BBB Senior Hotline emphasizes the importance of staying informed.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect seniors,” says Mary Owens of the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline. “When people know the warning signs of fraud, they are far less likely to become victims.”
Common Warning Signs of a Scam
Recognizing the early signs of fraud can prevent serious financial losses. Seniors and families should be cautious when they encounter situations such as:
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High-pressure sales tactics
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Requests for immediate payment
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Requests for personal information over the phone
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Claims that a deal is “too good to be true”
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Threats involving government agencies or law enforcement
Scammers often rely on urgency to prevent people from taking time to verify information.
When something feels suspicious, contacting a trusted resource like the BBB Senior Hotline can help determine whether a situation is legitimate.
How the Senior Hotline Supports Colorado Springs Residents
The BBB Senior Hotline provides direct support for seniors who have questions about businesses or potential scams. Many callers reach out simply to verify whether an offer or request is legitimate.
The hotline can help seniors:
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Research businesses before making purchases
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Report suspicious calls or messages
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Understand their consumer rights
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Receive guidance after encountering a scam
For seniors living in Colorado Springs, this support adds an important layer of protection.
Families often encourage older loved ones to use the hotline whenever they receive unexpected phone calls or emails requesting personal information.
Fraud Prevention Tips for Seniors
Staying vigilant is the best way to avoid becoming a victim of fraud. Seniors can protect themselves by following several simple guidelines.
Never Share Personal Information with Unknown Callers
Scammers frequently pose as government officials, banks, or healthcare providers. Legitimate organizations rarely request sensitive information unexpectedly.
Verify Businesses Before Making Purchases
Checking BBB ratings and reviews can help ensure a company is legitimate.
Be Cautious with Online Transactions
Always verify website security and avoid clicking links from suspicious emails.
Talk with Family Before Sending Money
Discussing major financial decisions with trusted family members can prevent scams.
Supporting Families and Caregivers
Fraud prevention is not just a concern for seniors—it’s also an important issue for caregivers and family members. Many families worry about loved ones being targeted by scammers.
Encouraging seniors to stay informed and providing them with trusted resources like the BBB Senior Hotline can help reduce this risk.
Family members may also help by:
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Monitoring unusual financial activity
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Discussing common scams with loved ones
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Encouraging open communication about suspicious situations
Education and awareness are powerful tools in protecting older adults.
Building a Safer Community in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs prides itself on being a supportive community where residents look out for one another. Programs like the BBB Senior Hotline strengthen this spirit by providing seniors with resources that promote safety and confidence.
By helping seniors avoid scams and make informed decisions, the hotline contributes to the overall well-being of the community.
Connect with the BBB Senior Hotline
If you or a loved one have questions about suspicious calls, potential scams, or consumer concerns, the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline is available to help.
Visit the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline listing on Seniors Blue Book to learn more about their services and how they help protect seniors throughout the Colorado Springs community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BBB Senior Hotline?
The BBB Senior Hotline is a resource that helps seniors identify scams, verify businesses, and report fraudulent activity.
Is the hotline only for victims of scams?
No. Seniors can call to ask questions about suspicious offers before making decisions.
What should I do if I think I’ve been targeted by a scam?
Contact the BBB Senior Hotline immediately and report the incident. They can guide you on next steps.
Are scam calls common for seniors?
Unfortunately, yes. Seniors are often targeted by scammers, which makes awareness and education extremely important.
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