Avoiding Scams Or Becoming Victim to Fraud near Drexel Heights, Arizona
Unfortunately, trends are showing that senior citizens are among the most likely to become a victim of fraudulent scams. They are more likely to have a savings put away somewhere, own their home, and generally have a great credit rating, which makes for a perfect target. Con artists exploit the kind hearted and the fact that senior citizens are generally more trusting. It is important to know what to look for and how to protect yourself or your loved one from becoming a victim to fraud.
What To Watch Out For
Excessive phone calls – Telemarketers target elderly customers because they have a harder time “hanging up”. Unfortunately being polite in this situation is a hindrance and could end up causing an unwanted commitment. Register the phone number on the “Do Not Call List” in order to avoid most of these incoming calls.
Personal Information – Beware of any emails or calls asking for personal information such as social security numbers or bank accounts.
Family Members are in trouble – A popular scheme has been to receive a call that a close relative is in trouble and needs money sent right away. Always check with family members before taking a stranger’s word for it.
Junk Mail – Excessive junk mail can be from the computer or the physical mailbox. Watch out for the sweepstakes and winning lottery purchases. Sometimes con artists will even send a check in the hope that it will be more believable for a future investment.
Credit Card companies or Banks asking for personal information – Victims to this fraud will be told that they need to verify their account and routing number for a past purchase or to reverse a fee. Hang up and call your bank directly to verify if this is needed. If it is an email, don’t use the link in the email. Log in to the bank from your bank homepage to verify.
Blank documents – Whether it is a prescription, a bill, or a contract, a document should never be signed unless the signer fully understands what they are agreeing to and it is clearly written out on the document.
If you or a family member does become a victim to fraud, report it. Sometimes older Americans are afraid or ashamed to report it because they are embarrassed or worried of how it will appear. You should report the fraud to your local law enforcement, bank, or the Better Business Bureau. This will help with possible getting a return as well as aid in stopping the fraudulent activity from happening again.
An experienced and trusted home care provider can aid in the daily awareness of avoiding these scams in order to not feel overwhelmed or fall susceptible to fraud.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services in the home, please contact the caring staff at Total Care Connections (520) 447-4711. We provide quality Home Care & Assisted Living Placement Serving Tucson, Green Valley, Oro Valley, and Surrounding Areas!
