Karen’s Korner,
I wanted to include this article I read the other day for an update on Scams and Fraud: This is the article from the FBI website: Boston
“Elder fraud is a growing problem and a shameful crime,” said Kimberly Milka, acting special agent in charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Not only does it rob an already vulnerable population of their sense of security, but it leaves them with devastating financial losses. We all need to work together to make sure our seniors know about these schemes so they can protect their hard-earned money from being swindled away by scammers. If you are being victimized, or know someone who is, please report it to us at ic3.gov.”
Seniors are frequently targeted by criminal actors, as they are often perceived to be more polite and trusting. These actors may also assume that seniors are more financially stable, own real estate, spend a great deal of time alone, and are less likely to report fraud if they feel ashamed or are unfamiliar with reporting channels such as IC3.gov.
Fraud can happen to anyone, and small steps can be taken to protect yourself and your information:
- Search online for the contact information (name, phone number, email, addresses) of any unknown source which reaches out to you, as well as the proposed offer. Other people have likely posted information online about businesses and individuals attempting to run scams.
- Resist the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a sense of urgency to lure victims into immediate action, typically by instilling trust and inducing empathy, fear, or the promise of monetary gains, companionship, or employment opportunities.
- Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, mailings, and door-to-door service offers.
- Never give or send to unverified people or businesses any personally identifiable information, money, checks, gift cards, or wire information.
- Take precautionary measures to protect your identity should a criminal gain access to your device or account. Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts and for suspicious activity.
If you believe you are a victim of fraud or know a senior who may be—regardless of financial loss—contact your local FBI office or report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. You should include the name of the scammer/company, the dates and methods of contact and payment, where the funds were sent, and a detailed description of the interaction.”
Just a reminder: Stay alert and stay educated about scams!