Tuesday News | The 80 Detector
October 28, 2026
Apparently, Retirement Savings Are Now a Criminal Growth Industry
By Mare | Been There, Done That | Belated Tuesday News, October 27, 2026
Well, folks, apparently somebody forgot to tell the scammers that we’re supposed to be enjoying retirement.
The Federal Trade Commission reports that Americans age 60 and older lost approximately $3 billion to fraud in 2025. Three BILLION dollars! And that’s just what was reported.
Investment scams accounted for a substantial share. Now, I’ve spent plenty of time investigating those online advertisements promising fabulous returns, secret investments, and opportunities that will supposedly change my life before breakfast.
And I have a question: If everybody on Facebook knows how to become a millionaire, why are they all trying so desperately to get my $250?
The Senior Stereotype Needs a Tune-Up
Older adults are not necessarily more likely to fall for fraud than younger people. But when older victims do lose money, the losses can be especially painful.
Maybe we seniors have learned a thing or two after decades of dealing with salespeople, politicians, questionable investments, and those wonderful extended automobile warranties.
Artificial Intelligence Joins the Party
As if ordinary scammers weren’t enough, artificial intelligence has given them a shiny new toolbox: fake voices, convincing emails, manufactured videos, and endorsements from people who never endorsed a thing.
Imagine a phone call from someone who sounds exactly like your grandson, urgently asking for money. Twenty years ago, we worried about strangers selling aluminum siding. Now we have to wonder whether the caller is even a person!
And yes, I recognize the irony of writing this with help from artificial intelligence. At least my AI assistant isn’t asking for my banking password.
My 80 Detector Says…
Before sending money, ask: Who is behind this offer? Can I independently verify it? Why must I act RIGHT NOW?
If the answers don’t make sense, close the page. If a caller claims to be a family member in trouble, hang up and call that person using a number you already know.
One Final Thought
Getting older doesn’t mean getting foolish. We’ve survived recessions, inflation, questionable politicians, technological revolutions, and more sales pitches than anyone should endure.
We can survive internet scammers, too—by asking questions, checking sources, and warning one another.
Because the only thing I want my retirement savings funding is my retirement. Not somebody else’s yacht.
Until next Tuesday, keep your coffee hot, your passwords private, and your 80 Detector fully charged!
— Mare | Been There, Done That | https://homesharetucson.com
Source notes: https://www.ftc.gov/reports. Protecting Older Consumers 2025-2026: A Report of the Federal Trade Commission
