Senior Scams

Scam means to victimize, cheat, or swindle. Our concern is that seniors are and have been targeted. Why seniors? Partly because they have matured, put away childish things and have mellowed to where many are more vulnerable, accessible and more generous.

Some seniors live alone, are lonely, bored and can be quite susceptible when a scam “raps” on their door (or arrives on air waves via satellite or telephone). But with so much junk mail, including scams of all sorts, the pressure is constantly there.

What are some of the types of scans to look for? For one thing, a clever scammer may look and act professionally so beware. Tawdry scams are easier to detect. Scam origins are often dubious but they can look like they come from the bank, Uncle Sam, even medicare or charitable organizations. Looks can be deceiving so beware.

Most legitimate institutions do not write or call asking for personal information like your birth date, a social security number or your bank account. They will identify themselves appropriately and if in doubt, ask for their name, address and phone number for verification. If they hedge, look out. If you are suspicious, simply hang up. If they are valid, they will try again and you’ll know what to do.

Look out for those who solicit your services such as telephone experts, computer techies, property deed officials and the like. Unless you instituted the service, never give your credit card number or other information. When you do make a contribution and you expected it to be a one time deal, you may get a receipt with an appeal to give more. Ignore it. You are the boss, not the solicitor. They can be persistent and persuasive but so can you.

Beware of threats. Legitimate entities don’t make threats. Hang up. Toss it in the waste basket. And if you are badgered, seek help from a relative, friend or the BBB (Better Business Bureau), etc.. On a final note, if you have way too much money, and no heirs, you can find solace consolation in respectable causes but be cautious even here. If you need to bolster your retirement kitty, scam artists are ready and willing. Beware. Even close friends, family and unfortunately even professionals can be less than honorable.

If you do fall for a scam, you are not alone. Just don’t do it again if at all possible. Let your generous soul be discriminatory which in these situations is a virtue.