How the BBB Senior Hotline Helps Prevent Scams and Fraud

Author

Better Business Bureau- Senior Hotline

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Better Business Bureau- Senior Hotline

Posted on

Mar 19, 2026

How the BBB Senior Hotline Helps Prevent Scams and Fraud

In today’s fast-moving digital world, scams are becoming more sophisticated—and unfortunately, older adults are often targeted. From fake phone calls and phishing emails to deceptive home service offers, fraud can happen anywhere—even in a trusted community like Colorado Springs.

That’s why resources like the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline exist: to empower seniors and their families with the knowledge and support needed to avoid scams and make safe, informed decisions.

Why Seniors Are Often Targeted

Scammers frequently target older adults for a variety of reasons:

  • They may have accumulated savings or assets

  • They are often trusting and polite

  • They may be less familiar with evolving technology

But in a close-knit city like Colorado Springs—where community trust is strong and neighbors look out for one another—education and awareness can make a powerful difference.

Mary Owens of the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline explains:

“Our mission is to give seniors the tools they need to recognize scams before they happen. Knowledge is the first line of defense.”

Common Scams Affecting Seniors in Colorado Springs

Understanding how scams work is the first step in avoiding them.

1. Imposter Scams

Scammers pretend to be:

  • Government agencies

  • Medicare representatives

  • Utility companies

They often pressure victims into providing personal information or making payments.

2. Tech Support Scams

Victims receive calls or pop-ups claiming their computer is infected, prompting them to:

  • Grant remote access

  • Pay for unnecessary services

3. Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams

Seniors are told they’ve won a prize—but must pay fees or taxes upfront.

4. Home Repair Scams

Fraudsters offer “urgent” repairs, often after storms, and request payment before completing work.

5. Romance Scams

Online scammers build emotional relationships and eventually ask for money.

The Role of the BBB Senior Hotline

The Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline is a free resource dedicated to helping seniors avoid fraud and resolve concerns.

Services Include:

  • Scam prevention education

  • Assistance verifying businesses

  • Guidance on reporting fraud

  • Support for resolving consumer complaints

For residents near Colorado Springs, having access to a trusted organization like the Better Business Bureau can provide peace of mind.

How to Spot a Scam: Red Flags to Watch For

Recognizing warning signs can prevent costly mistakes.

Common Red Flags:

  • Urgent requests for payment or information

  • Requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers

  • Unsolicited calls or emails

  • Pressure to act immediately

If something feels off, it probably is.

Mary Owens adds:

“We always encourage seniors to pause and verify. Taking a moment to check can prevent a lifetime of regret.”

Practical Tips to Stay Safe

Simple precautions can go a long way in protecting yourself and your loved ones.

Safety Tips:

  • Never share personal or financial information with unknown callers

  • Verify businesses before making purchases or signing contracts

  • Use strong passwords and update them regularly

  • Discuss suspicious situations with family members

The Importance of Community Awareness

In Colorado Springs, community plays a vital role in protecting seniors.

Ways to Stay Informed:

  • Attend local workshops and seminars

  • Share information with friends and neighbors

  • Stay updated on new scam trends

A well-informed community is a safer community.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

Acting quickly can minimize damage.

Steps to Take:

  1. Stop all communication with the suspected scammer

  2. Contact your bank or financial institution

  3. Report the incident to the BBB Senior Hotline

  4. Notify local authorities if necessary

The sooner action is taken, the better the outcome.

Supporting Caregivers and Families

Families also play a critical role in protecting seniors.

Caregiver Tips:

  • Have open conversations about scams

  • Monitor financial activity when appropriate

  • Encourage verification before major decisions

The BBB Senior Hotline can also serve as a resource for caregivers seeking guidance.

Empowerment Through Education

The goal isn’t to create fear—it’s to build confidence. With the right knowledge, seniors can navigate today’s marketplace safely and independently.

Mary Owens emphasizes:

“We want seniors to feel empowered, not vulnerable. With the right information, they can make confident decisions and avoid becoming victims.”

Take the Next Step Toward Protection

Scams may be evolving, but so are the tools to fight them. With support from the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline, seniors in Colorado Springs can stay informed, protected, and confident.

👉 Visit the Better Business Bureau Senior Hotline listing on Seniors Blue Book to learn more, access resources, and get support when you need it most.


FAQs About Senior Fraud Protection in Colorado Springs

1. Is the BBB Senior Hotline free to use?
Yes, the service is free and available to assist seniors and their families.

2. Can the BBB help verify a business?
Yes, you can check business ratings and reviews through the BBB.

3. What should I do if I already sent money to a scammer?
Contact your bank immediately and report the incident to the BBB and local authorities.

4. Are scams common in Colorado Springs?
Yes, like many cities, Colorado Springs sees a variety of scams targeting seniors.

5. Can caregivers use the hotline for advice?
Absolutely—the hotline is a valuable resource for both seniors and their families.

Other Articles You May Like

Medicare/Medicaid/Insurance in Lafayette, CO

When an older adult needs help at home and sees several clinicians, a coverage decision can affect everything from prescription refills to rides. If youre considering TRU PACE in Lafayette, start by asking how enrollment would change the care and coverage you already use. How Medicare and Medicaid Fit Into PACEPACE is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. It coordinates healthcare and support for eligible adults who meet a state standard for nursing home-level care and can live safely in the community with PACE support at enrollment. Applicants must also be 55 or older and live in the programs service area.  TRU PACE and Your Current CoveragePhone: 303-665-0115Medicare says people with Medicaid pay no monthly PACE premium. Medicare beneficiaries without Medicaid pay premiums for the long-term care portion and Medicare Part D drugs. Medicare also says participants owe no deductible, copayment, or coinsurance for drugs, services, or care approved by their PACE team. Ask TRU PACE for an estimate based on your individual coverage before enrolling.  Doctors, Prescriptions, and Existing ServicesTRU PACE says it becomes the participants insurance provider at enrollment. Participants generally receive care through the programs provider network. Bring a list of your doctors, medications, and scheduled services. Ask which providers are in the network and how the team would coordinate any changes.  Why This Matters in LafayetteIf you regularly see a clinician near home or have a specialist visit scheduled outside Lafayette, give the enrollment team the names and dates. Ask which appointments can continue and what to do about any refill due around the enrollment date. How to Get Started1. Gather Your Coverage InformationHave your Medicare and Medicaid information, if applicable, along with details of any current plan. List the appointments and prescriptions you rely on most.2. Ask for an Enrollment and Cost ReviewCall TRU PACE and ask for your expected monthly cost, when any coverage change would take effect, and who would help coordinate the transition.  Related Seniors Blue Book CategoriesPACE Adult Day Services Care Management

Funeral Cremation & Mortuary Services in Lafayette, CO

After a death, families may have to make several decisions in a short time. Others prefer to talk through their wishes ahead of time. In either situation, it helps to separate the practical arrangements from the decisions about how to gather, remember, and say goodbye. What Funeral and Mortuary Services CoverA funeral home can help arrange transportation and care of the person who died, assist with paperwork, and coordinate burial or cremation. A family may also arrange a viewing, funeral, memorial, or private gathering. Ask which decisions need to be made immediately and which can wait. The Natural Funeral in LafayettePhone: 720-515-2344The Natural Funeral lists natural burial, flame cremation, water cremation, and terramation, also called natural organic reduction. Water cremation uses an alkaline water process, and terramation transforms remains into soil. If one of these options interests you, ask what the process involves, how long it typically takes, and what the family receives afterward.  Planning a Gathering and Reviewing CostsThe Lafayette funeral home is at 102 W Chester Street in Old Town. Ask what can take place at the Lafayette location and which parts would involve another venue or a cemetery. Request a General Price List and a written breakdown of your choices so you can see which fees cover the funeral homes work and which come from outside providers.  Why This Matters in LafayetteIf relatives are coming from out of town or some guests have limited mobility, ask about parking, step-free access, and how many people the gathering space can accommodate. If you plan to hold a service and burial at different locations, check how much time guests will need between them. How to Get Started1. Write Down the Persons WishesLook for written instructions and note any cultural or religious preferences. If youre planning ahead, tell a trusted person where you keep your instructions and whom to call.2. Ask for a Written PlanCall 720-515-2344 and ask what is needed on the first call. Once youve discussed options, request the expected timeline and itemized costs before approving arrangements. Related Seniors Blue Book CategoriesCounseling Hospice Advance Care Planning

Adult Day Services in Lafayette, CO

When an older adult spends most weekdays alone, families may need more than a place for them to go. They may also be juggling transportation, appointments, and help at home. TRU PACE in Lafayette offers a day center as part of a program that coordinates those needs for eligible older adults. What Are Adult Day Services?Adult day services offer daytime support outside the home. Depending on the program, participants may spend time with peers, eat a meal, take part in activities, or receive help with daily needs. Some centers accept people directly. The Lafayette TRU PACE center serves people enrolled in its broader Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. TRU PACE in LafayettePhone: 303-665-0115TRU PACEs Lafayette center is at 2593 Park Lane. The program coordinates medical and social services and arranges transportation to the day center and medical visits as needed. Ask the enrollment team what a typical center day includes, how often a participant might attend, and how the team decides what support to arrange at home. Who May QualifyPACE applicants must be at least 55, live in the programs service area, meet the states standard for nursing home-level care, and be able to live safely in the community with PACE support at enrollment. Ask how enrollment would affect access to current doctors and prescription coverage before making a decision.  Why This Matters in LafayetteWhen family members already drive someone to several appointments a week, a coordinated schedule can change who needs to be available and when. Ask how pickup would work at the persons Lafayette address and who to call if a ride or appointment changes. How to Get Started1. Ask for an Eligibility ReviewCall TRU PACE. Have the participants ZIP code, current coverage, and a short list of the help they need. 2. Ask to Visit the CenterFind out what the participant might do on a center day, how transportation works, and what changes to their current care arrangements enrollment would involve. Related Seniors Blue Book CategoriesCare Management Transportation Respite Care

Local Services By This Author

Better Business Bureau

Consumer Affairs

Since August of 1980, Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado has helped consumers find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust. It serves 25 counties throughout Southern Colorado. BBB of Southern Colorado sets standards for marketplace trust to create acommunity of dependable businesses and charities by encouraging and supporting best practices, educating consumers and businesses, celebrating business role models, and calling out and addressing substandard marketplace behavior. BBB of Southern Colorado housesover 23,000 reviews on companies in the region. Trust has never been more important. Better Business Bureau continues to be your best resource for identifying trustworthy businesses. We actively review and accredit trustworthy online retailers, contractors, and businesses.Before hiring a contractor or making a purchase, look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal and Age-Friendly Business Sign on vendors websites and search our database at BBB.org to find businesses that have earned TrustNow you can easily find BBB Accredited Businesses in the Seniors Blue Book. Look for the BBB Torch next to business listings and Start With Trust.Look For The Sign the next time you are searching for a trusted business. BBB Certified Age-Friendly Businesses are committed to supporting senior needs by following age-friendly practices in customer experience, physical environment, staffing and marketing.