Senior Scam Alert
Contributed by Donna Anthony
Public Service Announcement: Protect Our Seniors from Text Message and Online Scams
At Point Blank Firearms and Self Defense Training in Palmer, Alaska, we have proudly served the Matanuska-Susitna Valley for the past 12 years. While we specialize in responsible firearm ownership and self-defense, real protection also means staying safe from financial and emotional scams that target our seniors and vulnerable community members. We are issuing this updated PSA as a free community service.
Common scams targeting seniors right now include fake DMV or license suspension texts, package delivery scams, medication, Medicare, or insurance confirmation scams, and romance or love scams. Messages claiming to be from the Alaska DMV may say you have unpaid fines or tickets and demand immediate payment via a link, but the real Alaska DMV does not send text messages asking for payments or personal information. Package delivery scams often come as texts from “USPS,” “Amazon,” or “FedEx” saying a package is delayed or requires a fee, but legitimate carriers rarely send unsolicited text links, so always check the official app or website directly. Medication, Medicare, or insurance scams may ask you to verify personal information, Social Security numbers, or payment details due to supposed coverage changes, but legitimate providers will never ask for sensitive information through unsolicited texts. Romance scams involve fake online profiles that build emotional relationships over time, often claiming to be widowed, in the military, or working overseas, and eventually asking for money. These scammers can be very convincing, so never send money, gift cards, or personal information to someone you have only met online.
Red flags to watch for include urgent demands or pressure to act immediately, requests for money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers, unsolicited links or requests for personal information, and individuals met online who quickly declare love or ask for financial help. Poor grammar, inconsistent stories, or refusal to meet in person or via video call are also warning signs.
To protect yourself and your loved ones, never click links or reply to suspicious texts. Verify everything by contacting the real organization using a known phone number from their official website. Never send money to someone you have not met in person, and talk openly with family by sharing suspicious messages with trusted relatives before responding.
Scams can be reported to local law enforcement, including Palmer Police Department at (907) 745-4811, Wasilla Police Department through their Online Citizen Report Form or MATCOM dispatch at (907) 352-5401 option 6, Chickaloon Police Department at (907) 745-0700, or Alaska State Troopers at the Mat-Su post at (907) 745-2131 or through the AKTips app for anonymous reporting. Reports can also be made to state and federal authorities, including the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit at (907) 269-5200 or toll-free at 1-888-576-2529, or online, and the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov for internet-based crimes, phishing, or identity theft.
At Point Blank, we believe awareness is self-defense. The same vigilance we teach on the range applies to protecting your finances and personal information.
If you or a senior loved one has been targeted or victimized by a scam, report it immediately. Quick action can sometimes help recover funds.
This public service announcement is provided free as community service. Please share it widely with seniors, family members, and neighbors.
Stay safe, stay aware, and stay vigilant.
The Point-Blank Team