Homeowners Face Rising Scam Threats

NEW YORK — It's a sad – and sometimes scary – truth that security goes beyond locking doors and installing alarms. These days, the biggest threats aren't physical: they're digital, emotional and sometimes highly sophisticated.

Scammers now use emails, phone calls, and even in-person schemes at your door to exploit trust and create a sense of urgency. With evolving tactics and the rise of AI, knowing how scams work – and how to avoid them – has never been more important. Here are a few top scams targeting homeowners in 2026.

AI-powered scams

One of the fastest-growing threats is the use of artificial intelligence to impersonate real people. Scammers can now replicate voices with frightening accuracy. They might create phone calls that sound exactly like a loved one in distress. A common scenario involves someone posing as a grandchild or family member, claiming they are in trouble and need money immediately.

If you get a suspicious call, stop and think. Hang up and call the person using a number you trust. You can also check with another family member. Set up a family safe word or verification question to stop these scams.

Phishing and email scams

Email and text-based scams (also known as phishing) remain some of the most common. These messages are typically disguised as messages from banks, delivery services or utility providers. The message might talk about suspicious activity, missed payments or account issues, prompting you to click a link or download an attachment. Don't click any links!

Before taking any action, check the email address. Even small typos or strange-looking domains can be red flags. Never provide personal or financial information through email or text. Look up the company yourself and contact them using verified information.

Another important safeguard: Never reuse passwords for multiple accounts. If one account is compromised, scammers can access your email and banking information. Use a password manager and enable two-factor authentication for more security.

Home improvement and service scams

For homeowners, the front door can be another point of vulnerability. Unsolicited contractors (also known as storm chasers) can show up and offer discounted services such as roof repairs, landscaping or installations. While some may appear legitimate, others rely on high-pressure tactics to secure quick payments.

Be wary of anyone who claims to have leftover materials from a nearby job, insists the offer is only available "today," or asks for full payment up front. Always ask for credentials (AZ ROC is a good place to start), verify the company's online reputation, and request a written estimate before agreeing to any work.

Taking the time to research can help you avoid costly mistakes. If you're unsure, say no. Legitimate businesses will not pressure you to decide immediately.

Phone scams

Phone scams often rely on fear and urgency to manipulate victims. Callers may claim to represent government agencies, financial institutions, or debt relief organizations. Some may threaten legal action, while others promise to resolve a problem – for a fee quickly.

One such scam happened to a ROTH employee's mother when she was attempting to speak with the Geek Squad for a computer issue. The "squad" told her they needed $1,000 in Target gift cards before they could address the issue. She was about to head to the store when she realized something wasn't right.

Legitimate organizations will not request sensitive information, such as your Social Security number or Medicare details, over the phone. They also won't demand payment via gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency, especially through unsolicited calls.

If you get a text or email asking for your Medicare number, do not respond. Check your summary notices or claim statements for any signs of fraud. A charge for a service you didn't receive is a red flag.

If you receive a suspicious call, hang up. Contact the organization directly using an official phone number. Many smartphones and service providers offer call-blocking and spam-filtering tools to reduce unwanted calls.

Tech scams

An unfortunate truth: The devices and apps we rely on every day are also susceptible to scams. One of these involves malware embedded in suspicious smartphone apps or inexpensive, off-brand electronics that turn your home internet into part of a "residential proxy network."

What this means is strangers – potentially criminal – can route their online activity through your network without you knowing. That activity can range from harmless data scraping to serious illegal behavior. Because it appears to come from your IP address, it could potentially draw unwanted attention from law enforcement.

The tricky part is that many people don't even realize they've been affected, as the software often comes preinstalled on low-cost streaming devices or is unknowingly downloaded through apps that seem legitimate.

One of the easiest ways to protect yourself is to check your home network for suspicious activity regularly. There are online tools that can scan your IP address and flag potential risks, giving you a quick snapshot of whether your connection has been tampered with.

Practicing "good digital hygiene" is essential. Be cautious about downloading apps, especially those that promise free access to paid services like movies, sports or premium subscriptions. If something feels too good to be true, it usually is. Apps that offer to pay you for sharing your internet bandwidth are another major red flag – don't do it.

Off-brand electronics, such as streaming boxes or smart gadgets, can sometimes come preloaded with malicious software. Investing in reputable brands and purchasing from trusted retailers is worth the price tag.

Keep your home network safe by using unique passwords, updating your router's firmware, and avoiding public or unsecured connections for sensitive activity.

Payment scams

Payment scams come in many forms, from fake invoices to fraudulent service requests. A common thread is the demand for immediate payment, often via nontraditional methods such as gift cards or peer-to-peer payment apps.

Scammers prefer these methods because they are hard to trace and nearly impossible to reverse. If someone insists on being paid this way, it's a major warning sign.

Always verify the legitimacy of the request before sending money. When in doubt, call a friend, family member, or financial advisor. Take a moment. This can be the difference between avoiding a scam and becoming a victim.

Why seniors are often targeted

While scams can affect anyone, seniors are targeted more often. Fraudsters assume older adults are more trusting or less familiar with new technology. Seniors may answer unknown calls or respond to unsolicited messages more frequently.

This makes education and communication especially important. Nonprofits like R.O.S.E. provide presentations for seniors to educate them about the warning signs and how to prevent them.

Families should get together to discuss common scams and help set up security measures such as call blockers and account alerts. There is safety in everyone being on the same page.

Protecting yourself is simple. Remember these steps:

• Avoid reusing passwords and use a password manager
• Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Be cautious with unsolicited communications, whether by email, phone, or in person.
• Don't click on links in unexpected messages.
• Never share sensitive information over the phone unless you trust the recipient.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Scammers are constantly adapting, using new tools and tactics to reach homeowners. Their methods become more convincing, but protection always starts the same way: slow down and verify. Stay informed to protect your property, financial security, and peace of mind.

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