Veterans are often targeted by criminals who zero in on their service benefits. One plot involves scammers posing as representatives of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and that they need to verify benefits.
AARP survey data reveals that 86% of service members and veterans have faced at least one service-related scam in the past year. These thieves specifically target veterans, with losses amounting to $477 million in 2023, according to the latest Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data.
AARP's report, "Scambush: Military Veterans Battle Surprise Attacks from Scams and Fraud," highlights the top scams facing the veteran and military community.
Often, veterans are targeted by scammers who exploit their service benefits. One prevalent scam involves scammers posing as representatives of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). They claim to be from the VA and request sensitive personal information to "update their file" or "verify benefits," threatening to cut off benefits if the information is not provided. They may also claim that veterans owe money for an overpayment from the VA and demand immediate payment.
In claims assistance scams, unaccredited individuals charge illegal fees to help veterans file claims for benefits, access their records, or apply for expanded benefits under the PACT Act. Veterans can access their military records for free through the National Archives. It is important to use VA-accredited representatives or veterans service organizations (VSOs) to help you with any benefits issues. In VA loan refinance scams, a criminal promises a "super low" refinance rate on a VA loan in exchange for an upfront fee. Legitimate VA loan offers do not require upfront fees.
Other scams include an offer of a large, upfront cash payment in exchange for the veteran signing over their future disability or pension payments. The cash amount is only a fraction of what the benefits are worth. They might also offer to help veterans qualify for additional benefits by hiding assets, which can affect future benefits.
Scammers also post fake job listings targeted at veterans. As part of the application process, they trick job seekers into giving away sensitive personal information. They may charge fees or require job seekers to pay for training or equipment, taking money for a job that never materializes. Other common scams include offers for phony investment opportunities, requests for donations to fake charities, and romance scams.
Veterans can protect themselves by:
Being wary of unsolicited calls offering assistance with veterans benefits, especially if they ask you to pay fees. Alaska's Office of Veterans Affairs (1-888-248-3682) can help with veteran benefits, questions, or veteran-specific programs in Alaska. They will not charge you any fees.
Never pay for copies of your or a family member's military records. You can get them for free through the VA.
If you are contacted by someone stating they are from the VA, hang up and call the VA directly at 1-800-698-2411. The VA will not ask for personal data by phone, text, or email. They will not threaten you with jail time or a lawsuit.
Scammers know veterans remain true to the men and women who serve. They will make up fake "veteran" charities or use a name that closely resembles a real charity. Before donating to a charitable cause, check out the organization at www.Give.org, www.Charitywatch.org and www.Charitynavigator.org.
AARP offers free resources to help veterans avoid scams including the AARP Watchdog Alert Handbook: Veterans Edition (http://bit.ly/4osAPoz) which highlights tips for detecting common scams targeting veterans and military families. If you or a loved one has been targeted by a scam or fraud, you are not alone. You can call AARP's also fraud helpline 877-908-3360 (open 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. Alaska time Monday through Friday) to talk to a fraud specialist who can provide support and guidance on next steps.
Teresa Holt is the AARP Alaska state director.
