For adult children and caregivers in San Diego County

How to Protect an Elderly Parent From Scams

It’s hard to keep up with every new scam, and harder still to talk about it without making a loved one feel embarrassed. We help your parent learn the warning signs in a patient, respectful way, and you’re welcome to sit in.

Call 619-453-0165 Email contact@waitcheckfirst.com

Signs a loved one may be targeted

Secretive phone calls, or being told to “keep this between us”
Sudden requests for gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency or cash
New “friends” online asking for money, or a “prize” that needs a fee first
Pop-up warnings, or someone asking to connect to their computer
Unusual withdrawals or new accounts they don’t remember opening

Simple steps you can take today

Talk about it without blame. Scammers fool smart people every day. Share stories, not lectures.
Agree on a family rule: if anyone asks for money, codes or secrecy, hang up and call a family member first.
Pick a family code word to confirm a real emergency call from a relative.
Put trusted numbers on the fridge: their bank, card companies and a family contact.
Ask their bank about account alerts and adding a trusted contact.

How we help your family

One-on-one, at their pace

A two-hour session in plain language, with time for every question. Family members are welcome.

Practice, not just talk

Realistic scam scenarios so they feel ready to pause, verify and respond safely.

A plan you can both keep

Clear steps and the right phone numbers for banks, card companies and authorities.

Prefer to learn from home? Our online course covers the same approach with short lessons, practice and a personal plan you can print.

Let’s talk about your family’s situation

Call for the fastest response, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. Serving San Diego County.