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AARP Pennsylvania Offers 5 Ways to Avoid Phishing Scams

AARP Pennsylvania Offers 5 Ways to Avoid Phishing Scams

HARRISBURG PA – Spring will soon be in the air, and that means scam artists are likely in the wind, according to AARP Pennsylvania.

The state chapter is part of the nation’s largest nonprofit organization for people age 50 and older. It is warning consumers about the growing threat of what are known as “phishing scams.” They represent fraudulent attempts to steal personal and financial information through e-mails, phone calls, text messages, and fake websites.

“Scammers becoming more sophisticated,” the group reports in a Tuesday (March 4, 2025) e-mail.

They “pose as trusted businesses or government agencies to trick you into giving up sensitive information,” Mary Bach, chair of the AARP Pennsylvania Consumer Issues Task Force, says. Phishing attempts often claim an account has been compromised, a package delivery has failed, or a legal action is pending. Scammers may even manipulate caller ID to appear legitimate.

Five Ways to Slam the Scammers

To help consumers stay safe, AARP Pennsylvania recommends:

  • Verify the sender. Check e-mail addresses and phone numbers carefully;
  • Avoid clicking links or opening attachments in suspicious messages. Visit the organization’s official website instead;
  • Use strong, unique passwords for website log-ins, and don’t share them. Enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible;
  • Report suspicious messages to the Federal Trade Commission at reportphishing@apwg.org; and
  • Report scams to local law enforcement agencies.

“Phishing scams were the most frequently reported cybercrime in 2023,” the latest FBI Internet Crimes Report says. During that year it received nearly 300,000 complaints, and estimated more than $18.7 million in reported losses. Actual loss levels may be higher due to under-reporting. Statistics for 2024 are still being compiled.

“Scammers are constantly refining their tactics,” David Kalinoski, AARP Pennsylvania associate state director, adds. “By staying informed and taking a few simple precautions, consumers can greatly reduce their risk.” For help from AARP, call 1-877-908-3360; or see the AARP Pennsylvania Fraud Resource Page online.

Photo by Allison Saeng on Unsplash+, used by Travels With The Post under license