BOSTON, MA (MyKeeneNow) Criminals are targeting older adults in New England with increasingly elaborate scams involving couriers who pick up cash or even gold bars directly from victims’ homes, according to the FBI’s Boston Division.

Between 2023 and May 2025, more than 100 cases of these courier scams were reported across Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island, resulting in losses of over $26 million. Nearly all the victims — about 98 percent — were over the age of 60.

Massachusetts residents suffered the greatest losses, totaling nearly $19 million across 59 cases. In New Hampshire, 15 victims lost more than $4.1 million, while in Maine 16 victims lost nearly $2.7 million. Thirteen Rhode Islanders reported losses of about $557,000.

Nationwide, the FBI documented more than 1,700 similar cases during the same period, with losses topping $186 million. Authorities believe the true number is higher since many people never report being scammed.

“These literal gold diggers are trying to get rich quick at the expense of our aging family members and friends,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Boston. “We’re working hard to educate folks about this troubling trend to prevent others from being victimized, and we need your help. Talk to your loved ones about how to protect what’s theirs.”

The schemes often begin with a phone call, email or computer pop-up. Scammers pose as grandchildren in trouble, government agents, or even tech support specialists, and pressure victims to withdraw cash or buy gold. A courier then arrives in person to collect the money. To appear legitimate, scammers sometimes provide victims with a “code” or “password” for the handoff.

In one version of the scam, victims are told their identity has been tied to a criminal investigation and are instructed to liquidate their assets “for safekeeping” in a supposed government account. In another, callers claim a grandchild or relative has been in a car crash or jailed, demanding immediate payment for bail or legal fees.

The FBI is working with banks, law enforcement and community organizations to cut off these schemes by educating potential victims and flagging unusual transactions, such as seniors suddenly buying large amounts of gold.

Officials urge the public to remember that no government agency or legitimate business will ever ask someone to purchase gold or precious metals. They also advise against clicking unsolicited pop-ups or emails, sharing personal information online, or allowing unknown individuals access to personal computers.

Victims or families who suspect a scam are encouraged to file a report through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. Seniors can also call the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice hotline at 1-833-372-8311 for help.