Aug 14, 2025 | posted by Lily Chavez
When it comes to scams, many people believe Baby Boomers are the most frequent victims. While that’s partly true, the reality is that every generation is at risk. Two age groups that scammers especially love to target are teens and young adults (13–21) and adults 55 and older. Both have proven more vulnerable as technology continues to evolve.
Here's what criminals typically send out for each generation.
Gen Z (Born 1997–2012)
Raised on smartphones and social media, Gen Z is highly connected but not always cautious. Many lack financial experience and tend to trust digital interactions, making them a prime target for online fraud.
Social media scams: This generation is known for sharing personal information and often clicks on malicious links without thinking. Fraudsters disguise themselves by creating fake profiles and pages, tricking young users into trusting them.
Online shopping scams: Gen Z loves shopping online, but the rise of fake products and counterfeit websites makes online shopping increasingly risky. They often shop online without checking reviews or the legitimacy of the business, believing they will receive their products after shipment.
Fake job postings: Unfortunately, as the years have gone on, many Gen Z individuals are seeking work in large numbers, which has also led to more fake postings and scams as the generation finally steps into the workforce.
Cryptocurrency scams: High-risk “investment” pitches preying on inexperience and the allure of quick gains.
Millennials (Born 1981–1996)
Often called the “tech-savvy” generation, Millennials are experienced internet users, but busy lifestyles and financial pressures make them susceptible to scams promising convenience or quick relief.
Email and text phishing scams: Since most Millennials are busy at work, they often use email or text as a form of communication in their daily or work lives. The difference in knowing a legitimate email or text from people has become increasingly difficult.
Investment scams: These scams range from buying investment properties to timeshares or even joining pyramid schemes. This generation loves finding new opportunities to advance financially due to facing financial pressure from increasing home prices, inflation, and student loans.
Loan forgiveness scams: Either if its student loan forgiveness or debt forgiveness loan this generation is looking to ease their burden of debt in exchange for upfront fees.
Boomers (Born 1946-1964)
Boomers grew up in a pre-digital world, which makes adapting to rapid tech changes more challenging. Criminals often target them through more traditional, trust-based tactics.
Romance scams: Although finding romance online can affect each generation, this generation has fallen victim yearly and significantly. With loneliness on the rise, many older individuals have the largest share of losses in these scams.
Lottery and prize scams: Fraudsters love to share the great news that older people have won big. Many boomers grew up playing the lottery and gambling, and they are generally very willing to share their personal information or pay upfront fees to receive a prize.
While tactics differ by generation, the core advice is the same: stay skeptical, verify before you trust, and never share personal or financial information with unverified sources. Awareness and education are your best defenses against cybercriminals — whether you’re a 16-year-old TikTok user or a 70-year-old retiree.
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