Veterans have fought for our country, sacrificing comfort, time with loved ones, and often their own health to protect our freedoms. But today, many face a new kind of threat — one that doesn’t come from a battlefield overseas but from behind a phone screen or inbox. Scammers are targeting veterans at alarming rates, taking advantage of the very benefits they’ve earned through service.
At Warriors Fund, we know that protecting veterans’ financial security is just as important as honoring their service. By shedding light on how these scams work, we can empower veterans and their families with the knowledge they need to stay safe.
Fraudsters know that veterans receive a variety of benefits, from pensions to disability pay, and they exploit that trust. Many scams pretend to be from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or other official institutions, tricking veterans into handing over personal information or even money.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, veterans reported losing over $400 million to fraud in the past year alone. Even more concerning, military consumers reported a higher median loss per scam than the general public — meaning that when veterans do fall victim, the financial hit is often devastating.
Financial scams don’t just drain bank accounts — they erode trust. Veterans who are scammed may feel embarrassed, betrayed, or reluctant to seek help, which can deepen isolation. For those already navigating the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, this emotional blow can be significant.
That’s why awareness is critical. Talking openly about scams removes the stigma, equips veterans to recognize red flags, and encourages them to report incidents so others can avoid becoming victims
One of the most common tactics scammers use is impersonating the Department of Veterans Affairs. A veteran might receive a call or voicemail claiming there’s an issue with their disability payment or that they need to “verify” their Social Security number to continue receiving benefits. Some scammers even spoof official VA phone numbers to make their calls look legitimate.
If you get a suspicious call, hang up and contact the VA directly using the official number listed on VA.gov. The VA will never ask you to pay a fee to access your benefits.
Pension poaching scams are particularly damaging because they often come disguised as helpful services. Fraudsters may offer to restructure a veteran’s assets to qualify for VA pensions — but what they don’t disclose is that these moves can disqualify veterans from other benefits or result in legal trouble.
The VA Pension Poaching Awareness page provides guidance on how to spot these scams and why it’s crucial to only work with accredited representatives.
Around the holidays or after natural disasters, fraudulent “veteran charities” often pop up, tugging at donors’ heartstrings. These groups may have patriotic names and slick websites, but the money they collect rarely reaches veterans in need.
Before donating, confirm that the organization is legitimate by checking the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search. Giving to trusted charities ensures your support makes a real impact.
Some scammers target veterans’ financial security in more personal ways. Ponzi schemes and “too good to be true” investment opportunities promise high returns but leave veterans bankrupt.
Romance scams are another heartbreaking example — fraudsters form online relationships with veterans, building trust over months before requesting money for a fake emergency. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, romance scams cost victims more than $1 billion annually, making them one of the most financially damaging forms of fraud.
The good news is that with awareness and simple safeguards, veterans can dramatically reduce their risk of falling victim to fraud. Here are a few practical steps every veteran should take:
If you’ve been targeted by a scam, reporting it can protect others in the veteran community from becoming victims:
Taking these steps not only helps law enforcement catch criminals but also raises awareness in the veteran community.
Veterans have earned more than just gratitude — they deserve security and peace of mind. By staying alert, sharing information, and reporting suspicious activity, we can close the door on those who prey on those who served.
At Warriors Fund, we are committed to providing veterans with the tools, knowledge, and community support they need to thrive. Together, we can make sure no veteran fights this silent battle alone.
