Part Two

1. Understanding Crypto

(a)How blockchain works in simple terms

(i) Bitcoin vs. Altcoins vs. Stablecoins

(ii) Risks vs rewards with realistic expectations.

(b)How to avoid phishing scams (suspicious emails, phone calls or text messages).

(c)Leaving crypto to heirs (estate planning basics).

2. Red Flags

Here are a couple of examples of scams often used on older adults.

A. Tech Support Scam Involving Crypto Payments
Scammers pose as tech support agents from well-known companies like Microsoft or Apple, claiming the client’s computer has been hacked. They walk the victim through a fake "fix" and then say there's a charge for the service. Instead of traditional payment, they instruct the victim to buy cryptocurrency (usually Bitcoin) and send it to a wallet address. Sometimes they even remotely get into the victim’s computer to help them make the purchase — which is actually part of the scam.

B. Romance Scam with Crypto Requests
Scammers create fake online dating profiles and build emotional relationships with older adults and seniors over time. Once trust is established, they invent a crisis — like a medical emergency or a business problem — and ask for financial help. Instead of requesting a wire transfer or cash/check, they ask the victim to send cryptocurrency, claiming it’s faster or more secure. These scams are particularly heartbreaking because they combine financial loss with emotional betrayal.