At any time, there are various predators looking to scam seniors out of their savings. Many of us have spoken with our loved ones, trying to protect them from online or telephone scams. While financial abuse is common among seniors, scams of all types seem to be increasing. Billions of dollars are lost yearly to scams aimed at seniors.
What are some of the more common senior scams?
- Telephone donations. Seniors in particular are generous when a charity calls. Many seniors are sympathetic toward those who have very little. Scammers quite often will make calls and pose as a member of a well known charity. Always ask for written information and never give out any personal information over the telephone. Charities will not push for a donation so if you find you are being pressured, it is most likely a scam. Hang up the phone and block the telephone number if you can.
- Internet sales. Quite often when searching to buy an item online you will find a website where the item is much cheaper. If you didn’t know any better you’d think this was a great deal and go ahead with purchasing the item. Always buy from well known and reputable merchants online. If unsure, use your search engine to find reviews on the website. Once you’ve given your credit card information to these websites, they may use the card to steal your identification.
Most of the newer scams are technology based. Scammers have learned how to drain your bank account in various ways. While email used to be the most popular method of scamming someone, those scammers are now taking to social media. Don’t believe everything you read online. Also check news with a trusted authority.
One of the newest scams is phone based. Click here to read the details and also how to avoid being scammed.
