Protecting Our Seniors: Beware of Inheritance Scams

Recently, Pennsylvania state officials issued a serious warning aimed at protecting our senior citizens: a new scam is targeting older adults through fake emails that pose as official messages from Commonwealth employees. These scams are not only deceptive—they are dangerous, financially devastating, and emotionally distressing.

The Scam: How It Works

An elderly Pennsylvanian received an email from what appeared to be a legitimate Commonwealth email address. The message claimed that the individual was the beneficiary of a large inheritance from a distant relative overseas. However, to claim the funds, the senior was told they needed to pay multiple “release fees” through financial institutions.

Over the course of nearly a year, these fees added up to hundreds of thousands of dollars—all for an inheritance that didn’t exist.

The scammer posed as a representative of a credit union outside the United States and insisted that only their agency could help secure the funds. They used polished, persuasive language and official-sounding titles to gain trust.

Why This Matters

Scammers deliberately target older adults, who may be more trusting of perceived authority figures, less familiar with online fraud tactics, or simply trying to manage complex financial or estate matters. These criminals exploit our seniors’ desire to care for their families or leave a legacy behind.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe

• Be skeptical of unsolicited emails—especially those promising large sums of money.
• Never pay upfront fees for prizes, inheritances, or financial windfalls.
• Verify the sender’s identity by contacting the agency directly through their official website or phone number.
• Talk to a trusted advisor or family member before responding to unusual financial requests.
• Report suspicious messages immediately to the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities at 1-800-PA-BANKS.

A Call to Community

If you have aging parents, grandparents, or neighbors, this is the time to start a conversation. A simple check-in or warning could save someone from financial ruin. Scams thrive in silence—but awareness can shut them down.

Let’s look out for one another, especially those most at risk.

Need help understanding financial protections or insurance coverage for yourself or your loved ones?

Klinger Insurance Group is here to help—call us at 301-428-4935 for personalized guidance. Your security and peace of mind are our top priority.