Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has issued a proclamation recognizing April as Fraud Prevention Month in Ohio. The Ohio Department of Aging and other state agencies are offering tips for preventing and reporting financial scams as part of Fraud Prevention Month.
Ohio is home to more than 2.8 million older adults, and they can be vulnerable to financial fraud. As scams become more sophisticated, today’s technology makes it easier for criminals to steal personal information, drain accounts or trick them into unwillingly committing fraud.
Some examples of scams include:
- Phishing emails and unsolicited texts or phone calls asking for banking, credit card or other financial information.
- Fraudsters trying to get older adults to convert retirement assets into so-called “safer, guaranteed investments.”
- Imposters or hackers posing as friends or family members, asking older adults to send money immediately, usually by email or social media.
In March 2026, AGE alerted Ohioans to reports of a phone scam involving individuals falsely claiming to represent the Golden Buckeye program. Residents reported receiving unsolicited calls from scammers attempting to obtain personal information, including protected data such as Social Security numbers. These calls are not from the Ohio Department of Aging.
“Protecting older adults from scams is a responsibility we take seriously. When we empower people with the tools to recognize and report fraud, we help ensure that every older Ohioan can age with confidence and safety,” said AGE Director Ursel McElroy.
Resources
Ohioans can report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at inquiries.ohioattorneygeneral.gov. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of a scam should contact their local law enforcement agency.
The Ohio Department of Commerce is also a resource for information and tips about how to avoid fraud.
About AGE – The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.
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