Digital Sunscreen: NHRS Summer Cybersecurity Series
In our inaugural “Digital Sunscreen” post, we shared tips on protecting your devices while on vacation. But "Digital Sunscreen" isn't just about hardware. It's about protecting the financial future you've spent a lifetime building.
This month carries special significance as we recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15. It is a vital reminder that financial exploitation is a growing form of abuse, one that targets the security of retirees and older adults.
A Growing Threat to Your Security
The scale of financial fraud is reaching unprecedented levels. According to recent FBI data, retirees and older adults reported $7.7 billion in losses in 2025, a 59% increase over 2024, with an average loss of $38,500 per victimi.
At NHRS, we want to ensure you have the tools to spot a scam before it starts. Here are five essential ways to shield your assets.
Your Financial Protection Checklist
Verify the source. If someone contacts you unexpectedly claiming to be from NHRS, a bank, or a government agency such as the SSA or IRS, do not provide any information. Hang up and call back using the official phone number listed on the organization's verified website.
Keep sensitive data private. Never share your Social Security number, bank account numbers, or pension details over the phone or by email unless you initiated the contact.
Activate account alerts. Set up automated alerts with your financial institutions. These notifications reach your phone or email whenever a withdrawal, transfer, or login occurs, allowing you to catch suspicious activity instantly.
Designate a trusted contact. Choose a "financial wingman": a trusted family member, attorney, or financial advisor. Make it a rule to call this person before acting on any financial decision that feels urgent, confusing, or pressured.
Spot the red flags of secrecy. Scammers often rely on fear and isolation. If a caller insists that you must "act immediately" or "keep this a secret," even from your family, treat it as a major warning sign and end the conversation.
We All Have a Role
Protecting our community from financial exploitation is a collective effort. As the Social Security Administration notes for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we all have a role to play in keeping our community safe.
Your NHRS benefits are a cornerstone of your retirement. By staying vigilant and applying your "Digital Sunscreen," you can ensure that what you've earned stays exactly where it belongs: with you.