If you picture a scam victim, you probably picture someone older. Someone in their 60s, 70s, or 80s.
But new data says the most vulnerable group is not seniors.
It is their kids and grandkids.
A new Mastercard cybersecurity survey found that 43% of Gen Z and 39% of millennials say they have engaged with scam attempts. That can mean replying to a message, clicking a link, or continuing a conversation long enough for a scammer to make their move. Boomers were far less likely to do that, at 14%.
So why are younger adults getting pulled in more often. The scams are built for the way younger people live online, shop online, and apply for jobs online.
The scams younger adults fall for most
Shopping scams
Fake product ads, fake storefronts, and too good to be true deals that disappear after you pay.
Employment scams
Fake job listings that lead to “training fees,” fake checks, or forms that collect personal information.
Romance scams
A relationship moves fast, then a crisis hits, then the money request arrives.
Text message bait
Messages that claim you are owed money, your package is delayed, or your account needs immediate action. Many look official, but the link gives them away.
One common version pretends to come from a wireless provider and claims your reward points will expire soon. The message pushes you to a redemption page. The red flag is the web address. It might look close, but it is not the real company site.
The scams seniors are most vulnerable to
Tech support scams
A caller or pop up claims your computer has a security issue. They ask for remote access. That access turns into malware, theft, and drained accounts.
Impostor scams
Scammers pose as government agencies, law enforcement, banks, or even family members. The goal is urgency and fear.
Gift card demands
This is a major warning sign. Scammers love gift cards because they are hard to trace. No legitimate agency is going to demand payment by gift card.
The big picture, scams are costing Americans more than ever
The FTC says Americans reported $12.5 billion in fraud losses in 2024. The biggest losses came from investment scams at $5.7 billion, followed by impostor scams at nearly $3 billion.
And while older adults may fall for scams less often, FTC reporting has repeatedly shown that when seniors do lose money, the losses can be much higher, especially in high dollar impersonation, investment, and romance scams.
Quick red flags to share with family
Any message that creates panic or urgency
Any request to pay by gift card, crypto, or wire transfer
Any link that looks slightly off
Any caller who wants remote access to your computer
Any job offer that asks for fees, gift cards, or banking info upfront
Different scams. Different ages. Same goal.
And here is the twist worth repeating. Older folks may be the best ones to warn their kids and grandkids, because the data says younger adults are getting hooked more often.
