Introduction: Why Are Seniors Often Targeted?
In recent years, online scams have surged—especially those targeting seniors, using deceptive and “friendly” tactics. Many fall prey due to unfamiliarity with the internet, social loneliness, financial ambitions, or health concerns. DJK LLP has received numerous such cases. Through real stories, this article will help seniors recognize the five most common types of online scams.
Case 1: Impersonating Police or Government Officials
Story:
Mr. Wang, 66, received a call from someone claiming to be the police, saying his bank account was linked to money laundering. He was asked to transfer RMB 500,000 to a “safe account.” Afraid of arrest, he did so—only to realize it was a scam.
Analysis:
Scammers impersonate law enforcement, use fake documents or call displays to create fear, and manipulate victims into transferring money.
DJK LLP Tips:
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Authorities never request money via phone;
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Hang up and call the official hotline to verify;
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Record the call and report it to the police immediately.
Case 2: Investment Fraud—“Guaranteed High Returns”
Story:
Ms. Li, 60, met a “financial advisor” in a WeChat group. He offered investment tips in “green energy” and “cryptocurrency,” promising a 10% monthly return. She invested RMB 300,000, and while early withdrawals worked, the platform later disappeared.
Analysis:
Scammers lure victims with small early profits to build trust, then vanish once large sums are deposited.
DJK LLP Tips:
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Don’t invest via unknown apps or links;
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“Guaranteed profits” are always a red flag;
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Seek legal or professional financial advice before investing.
Case 3: Romance Scam—“I Love You from Abroad”
Story:
Ms. Zhang, 65, met a man online claiming to be an overseas Chinese engineer. He sent daily messages and professed love, then claimed a gift was stuck in customs and needed RMB 120,000 in “fees.” She sent the money and never heard from him again.
Analysis:
Romance scammers use emotional manipulation to extract money, often citing visa, gift, or emergency issues.
DJK LLP Tips:
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Be cautious of online relationships, especially if you haven’t met in person;
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Requests for money “in the name of love” are a warning sign;
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Involve family or a lawyer to verify the person’s identity.
Case 4: Health Product Scams—“Miracle Cures”
Story:
Mr. Liu received a call offering a “military-secret herbal patch” that promised to cure his chronic pain. He felt temporary relief from a sample and spent RMB 20,000 on the full course—only to discover it wasn’t approved by health authorities.
Analysis:
Scammers exploit seniors’ health anxieties and use fake medical claims to sell unapproved or worthless products.
DJK LLP Tips:
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Claims of “miracle cures” are almost always false;
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Verify product registration on official government websites;
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File complaints or legal claims if deceived.
Case 5: Impersonating Family—“Mom, I Changed My Number”
Story:
Ms. Chen got a message saying “Mom, I have a new number. I need urgent help, add me on WeChat.” The person later requested RMB 10,000 for an emergency. She transferred it—then realized her real son never changed his number.
Analysis:
Scammers pretend to be children or relatives and request urgent money transfers.
DJK LLP Tips:
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Always verify via original contact methods or a video call;
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Never transfer money without confirming identity;
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Teach family members to set up safety procedures together.
How DJK LLP Supports Victims
DJK LLP（https://www.djkllp.com/） is committed to helping seniors recognize scams, recover losses, and protect their rights:
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Free Initial Consultation: Legal risk assessments and guidance;
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Litigation Support: Suing platforms, freezing assets;
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Cross-Border Support: For scams involving Singapore and other countries;
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Awareness Training: Regular community talks and materials.
Conclusion: Stay Alert, Speak Up, and Seek Help
While scams may be cunning, vigilance, open communication, and legal action can prevent losses. DJK LLP stands ready as a reliable legal partner for seniors—helping them see through scams and defend their dignity with professionalism and care.
