
A quick question in a parking lot. A stranger asking for help in a grocery aisle. A moment of distraction, and suddenly, your wallet is gone. This fast-growing tactic, often called “distract and grab” theft, is increasingly targeting older adults, and experts say the financial impact is rising sharply. While these crimes happen in seconds, the consequences can last for months, especially when identity theft and drained accounts follow. Here’s what you need to know about the rise in thefts and how to protect yourself.