Across the country, scammers continue to find success — particularly with older residents and their families — with a seemingly endless supply of techniques for separating people from their hard-earned money.

Among the latest efforts is a scam in which a person receives a phone call, email or text that says they need to pay a fine, but that they should do so with Bitcoin, a gift card or other virtual currency.

And yes, the wording is confusing and aggressive enough that people continue to fall for these scams in droves.

In Ohio alone, between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, counties received 16,741 maltreatment referrals related to financial exploitation of older residents, according to the state Department of Job and Family Services.

These scams often feature urgent or aggressive requests for payment in forms such as cryptocurrencies or gift cards. Sometimes they promise big returns on the “investment,” sometimes they try to frighten a person by saying the payment is necessary to avoid arrest or to help a loved one in trouble.

“Scammers continue to find new and sophisticated ways to deceive people, like these emerging cryptocurrency scams,” said Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel J. McElroy. “I encourage older Ohioans and their loved ones to make it a point to stay up to date as these threats evolve; learn about the latest types of scams, share that knowledge with friends and family, and always check financial statements to make sure there are no unauthorized charges.”

Don’t give personal or financial information to someone who contacts you unexpectedly. Call the bank, business or government entity allegedly being represented, using officially posted phone numbers, if you have questions. Research businesses or charities before sending money or signing documents. And listen to your gut. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Resolve to be smart and cautious — and spread the word. Help others understand the dangers and how to avoid them. And remind them: You can never be too careful.