The Social Security Administration is urging Americans to watch for signs of elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and fraud as scammers continue targeting older adults across the country.

The warning comes as federal agencies mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and promote the “Never EVER” anti-scam campaign.

Officials say elder abuse can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and government imposter scams. In those scams, criminals may contact victims by phone, text message, email, letter, or social media while pretending to represent a government agency.

Federal officials warn that scammers often use fear and urgency to pressure people into sharing personal information or sending money. They may claim benefits will be suspended, legal action is pending, or money must be moved to a “safe” account.

The Social Security Administration says government employees will never demand payment through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps. They will also never tell someone to move money in order to protect it.

Officials encourage families to stay in regular contact with older loved ones, friends, and neighbors and to watch for unusual financial activity, sudden changes in behavior, isolation, or signs of neglect.

Anyone who receives an unexpected message claiming to be from a government agency should not click links or call phone numbers included in the message. Instead, officials say people should verify the information by contacting the agency directly using a known, trusted phone number or website.