Senior citizens represent 12%of the U.S. population, but are 35% of all fraud victims.

It’s a fact criminals historically target on the older demographic they report it’s easy to scam older people because they trust everyone. It’s not far but it’s a fact of life. The good news is scams are preventable and you have the power the power to stop yourself from being a victim! Where to start, well a good rule of thumb is this:  if it sounds too good to be true….well it is! Follow your gut, who cares if you upset the apple cart?  If a service provider doesn’t like your reaction then find a new service provider. You’ll be surprised that most service providers will be okay with your cautious nature as everyone has a set of parents.  

Scam Read Flags!

·         A phone caller asking for a donation however won’t tell you exactly how the money will be used and how you can verify the charity and what it does.

o   Legitimate charities are willing to tell consumers who they can check with to confirm that they are legitimate

·         A phone caller you have to take the offer immediately or you’ll miss the opportunity.

o   Legitimate companies don’t pressure people to act without time to look into the deal.

·         The caller asks for your credit card number, bank account number, or other financial information when you aren’t buying anything or paying with those accounts.

o   Legitimate companies only ask for financial information to bill you or debit your account for purchases you’ve agreed to make.

·         Remember, giving money to a fraudulent telemarketer usually means losing it forever.

o   Don’t let a criminal break into your home through your telephone line!

·         Law enforcement agencies don’t ask for payment to try to help consumers get their money back, and it’s illegal for a company to ask for advance payment for such services.

Remember you have to be careful, you have to be cautious and you have to watch out for yourself and your bank account.