Tips for Seniors

Resource: ftc.gov/olderadults

Scams are becoming more and more prevalent and seem to be targeting the senior market. The best way to avoid being a victim is to be aware that they use three common tactics: 1) they will contact you unexpectantly, 2) they will create a sense of urgency, or 3) they will give you a specific way to pay or send money.

It is important that you are aware of how you can spot, avoid and report scams.

First of all, don’t give money or information to anyone that contacts you unexpectedly. Legitimate businesses and government agencies won’t unexpectedly call, email, text or message you on social media to ask for information or money. Only scammers do that.

Slow down and check it out. Scammers want to pressure you to act quickly. That way, you don’t have time to think about or check out their story. So: slow down. Do some research. Talk to someone you trust before you do anything else.

Never pay someone who says you can only pay a certain way. Nobody legitimate will ever demand that you pay by gift card, wire, transfer, cryptocurrency, payment app, or cash. And nobody legit will ever tell you to move your money to “protect” it. But scammers will.

We have gotten a few calls that scammers are using our name as the return call number, so that you will accept the call, and then asking you for money. We would never do that.

Remember to be smart, think twice, and follow your gut instinct. If something seems fishy, it probably is!