In 2025, with the growth of artificial intelligence and technology, cybersecurity issues such as fraud and scams are increasing. At REAP Financial, we’re seeing these threats even among successful retirees, and it’s only becoming more common. These days, it is very easy to get taken advantage of online; it happens to smart people all the time.
These scams come to life in many ways, such as romance, email, video, Social Security, IRS, Medicare, and more. There are so many angles fraudsters can use to target retirees, you have to stay vigilant. And when you think about how quickly AI is growing, it’s likely there will be more challenges around keeping your retirement assets and personal information secure in the future. In this article, we’ll go over the do’s and don’ts for how to help protect your wealth from cyber attacks.
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How to Protect Your Retirement Wealth from Cybersecurity Threats
1. Consider Using Two-Factor Authentication
The first tip is to use two-factor authentication on all your accounts. This means everything, not just your email or bank accounts, but also your credit cards, credit reports, and more. Two-factor authentication is very simple and can generally be set up right in your portal. This extra layer of security sends a one-time code to your phone or email that helps verify your identity upon log-in.
In fact, a scam we’ve seen recently involves people receiving phone calls from someone claiming to be customer service. These callers say they’ve just sent you a code to verify your identity, but they’re really trying to use that code to access your account. This is why it’s critical to set up two-factor authentication on all your accounts and never share your codes with anyone.
2. Use Unique Passwords
Do not use the same or similar passwords for your logins. Though it can be confusing to keep different passwords for everything, it’s important for maintaining your digital security. There are password managers and applications that can help you keep track of them. If you prefer a non-digital method, you could keep a physical list at home. Just make sure wherever you store your password information is private and secure.
3. Verify Emails Before Clicking
When checking email, always verify before clicking on links. We receive all sorts of things through email these days, such as DocuSign links, bank documents, and social media messages. Since we’re used to seeing these, it can be easy to click without thinking.
Recently, we sent DocuSigns to clients to update their documents. One client reached out to confirm whether we sent it, and we were able to verify it. That kind of extra step is exactly what we recommend. You can check by verifying the sender’s email address, sending a follow-up message, or calling the company directly. Scams can be sophisticated. Some links can install malware or access your information automatically, so always double-check, even with text messages or chat platforms.
4. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Many people have credit cards or accounts they don’t use often and forget to check. We suggest monitoring all of your financial accounts regularly, even the ones you don’t use frequently. This can help you catch unauthorized activity early.
You should also consider locking your credit report. You can do this with the three major bureaus: Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. Locking your report can help prevent scammers from applying for credit in your name, even if they have your Social Security number and other personal information. Some worry this will limit their ability to access credit, but you can unlock it at any time with a few clicks. For most people, keeping your report locked until you need credit is a smart move.
You may also want to track the deed to your home or other properties. Property fraud, where someone changes the name on a deed and sells the property, is rare but real. There are ways to monitor this yourself. We suggest researching DIY property monitoring tools rather than paying for third-party services.
Never share personal information with someone calling you unexpectedly, and avoid making financial decisions on the spot. Scams often succeed because people are rushed or emotionally manipulated.
One tactic we’re seeing more of involves “romance scams,” where a relationship is built slowly over time. Eventually, the scammer asks for money during a supposed crisis. These scams are particularly effective because they prey on trust and emotion.
We’ve also seen scams involving Medicare and the IRS. These often involve aggressive calls claiming you owe money and threatening legal action unless you pay immediately. These scare tactics are meant to catch you off guard.
Be especially careful with Medicare-related calls. Scammers know that people can change Medicare plans annually to save money, so they use that as an opportunity to collect personal information. As a general rule, if you didn’t request something, be very cautious before providing sensitive information.
When in doubt, consult someone you trust: a fiduciary financial adviser, CPA, attorney, or local law enforcement. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion before taking action.
Retirement Planning Services in Austin, Texas
In 2025, technology has brought incredible advancements to our lives, but with that comes new risks. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can help protect your financial security in retirement.
Want to talk to someone about how to safeguard your retirement wealth? REAP Financial helps successful families in Austin, TX and beyond with retirement planning, tax strategy, and financial guidance. If you’re concerned about protecting your assets or navigating retirement securely, schedule a no-cost consultation with one of our fiduciary advisers today. Email us at retire@reapfinancial.com to get started.
Contact REAP Financial
Phone: (512) 249-7300
Email: retire@reapfinancial.com
Office Address: 9414 Anderson Mill Rd #100, Austin, TX 78729
Chris Heerlein, a Texas native, is the CEO of REAP Financial and founder of REAP Private Client Group (RPCG), specializing in wealth creation, preservation, and growth for affluent individuals, business owners, and executives. RPCG provides expert financial and investment advice, advanced tax strategies, business succession planning, and unparalleled client service. Chris is a trusted financial advisor, author of Divorce With Dignity (2019) and Money Won’t Buy Happiness But Time to Find It (2017), and a columnist for Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine.
He has been featured in Fortune, Money Magazine, Bloomberg Businessweek, and U.S. News & World Report. Chris also hosts Wealth Radio on NewsRadio KLBJ and is a sought-after speaker. Based in Austin, Texas, he lives with his wife, Hannah, and their three children and actively supports charitable causes.
