Southern Nevada seniors face an alarming rise in sophisticated scams exploiting both technology and trust. Authorities are issuing urgent warnings about some popular scams currently targeting older adults: smishing, brushing scams, QR code fraud, and Docusign scams. These deceptive tactics are becoming increasingly difficult to detect, making awareness your best defense.

1. SMISHING SCAMS: The Text Message Trap
Criminals are bombarding your cellphones with fraudulent texts posing as banks, government agencies, or even family members. These messages create false urgency with claims like:

• “Your Social Security number has been suspended”
• “Your grandson needs bail money immediately”
• “Your Amazon account shows suspicious activity”

Never click links or call numbers from unsolicited texts. Instead, contact the organization directly using verified contact information. Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) to report them.

2. BRUSHING SCAMS: The Mystery Package Ploy
If unexpected packages arrive at your door, beware! This could signal identity theft. Scammers send cheap items to validate stolen personal information, then use your identity to post fake online reviews. Check all accounts for unauthorized activity and report unsolicited packages to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Sometimes, brushing scams also add another component of placing QR codes in the unsolicited packages that has been sent to you. Which leads us to…

3. QR CODE FRAUD OR QUISHING: The Digital Deception
Criminals are placing fake QR code stickers over legitimate ones in public spaces or they place QR codes in packages that are involved in brushing scams. This is called ‘quishing’. Scanning these can install malware or direct you to phishing sites that attempt to get your personal information. Always verify QR codes before scanning. When possible, manually type website addresses instead.

4. DOCUSIGN SCAMS: The Fake Document Threat
Scammers are exploiting the trusted DocuSign brand to steal sensitive information. Victims receive emails appearing to be from DocuSign with subject lines like:

• “Please sign this document immediately”
• “Action required: Review and e-sign”
• “Payment authorization needed”

These emails contain malicious links that can install spyware on your device, steal login credentials, and access your financial information. Red flags to watch out for include: emails from suspicious addresses (like docusign@mailservice.com), requests for personal information to “verify your identity,” and documents with vague or urgent subject lines. If you are not expecting to sign anything, do not open e-mails like these! 

Get Help & Protect Others

Scammers constantly develop new tricks, but you can fight back. Stay alert for suspicious calls, texts, or emails, especially those demanding immediate action or personal information. Always verify requests by contacting organizations directly using official numbers or websites.

Don’t face scams alone. The Southern Nevada Senior Law Program provides free resources to help seniors spot and avoid fraud. Contact us today to learn about:

• Scams, Fraud, and ID Theft Prevention workshops
• What we can do to help you if you’ve been scammed
• Scam alert notification through our social media

Call us at 702-229-6596 or visit our website. You can also follow and like us on our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.