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Common Scams and How to Handle Them
Unfortunately, seniors are one of the largest-targeted demographics of scam attempts.
Be informed of what current attempts look like, and learn how to protect yourself from falling victim.
Signs you may be interacting with a scammer
-
Sense of urgency:
Whether it's an "act now!" message for a "gift", pressure to cancel a large transaction, or even threat of imminent legal action, chances are a scammer is trying to put you in a heightened state to decrease your logical thinking. If your initial response to a message is to act ASAP, take a step back-- it may be a scam. -
Odd language:
Scammers may speak another language and use odd words and phraseology. Or, the scammer may be a robot and use completely unnatural language. If the tone of the message seems off, it probably is. -
Sending links:
While it may seem harmless, opening a link can allow the scammer to access the information you're inputting, or even create a virus on your device. As a rule of thumb, seek the organization's official website yourself if you are putting in sensitive information. -
No personability:
If you are receiving any message from someone and they do not include your name in the message, odds are you are one of countless victims. If someone truly needs to conduct sensitive business with you, the odds are high that they are going to know and use your name. The same extends to voicemails-- don't answer calls from numbers you don't know. If they truly need you, they will be able to leave a message with personable information including your name, their name, and business. -
Unprofessional contact information:
Scammers may use generic email addresses such as @gmail.com, @hotmail.com or @yahoo.com most businesses will have their organization as their domain, and it will certainly be spelled right. Check to make sure spelling is correct and all information seems professional. -
Asking for money directly
Sometimes a scammer will pretend to be a loved one, or even a romantic interest that has worked to earn your trust. Do not agree to give money to any person you haven't met in real life-- no matter how much you like them or how much they seem they may need it. Similarly, check in with a loved one or someone close to them to see if they're in trouble before sending any money. In general, be aware of anyone asking for money through hard-to-trace means, such as wire transfers and gift cards.
- Avoid answering calls or text messages that you suspect may be a scam. Instead, delete and report the message as junk and to the FTC
- Turn spending alerts on to be notified of any transactions from your card in real time
- Regularly change your passwords
-Contact the organization through their official website directly if an individual is asking for money or payment
- Have a code word or statement to use with loved ones. If they are in an actual emergency, they will know the answer and scammers will not.
- Do not reply "yes" to any question you suspect may be from a spam call
How to avoid getting scammed
What to do if you think you may
have been scammed
- Report the incident to the FTC, identitytheft.gov, and local law enforcement
- Contact your financial institution to explain the situation and discuss steps for enhanced security
- Consider placing a freeze on your credit report
- Notify the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion)
- Change your account passwords
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