GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Many celebrated Grandparents Day over the weekend and the Better Business Bureau says it is a good time to remind grandparents about scams that could make them a victim.
“Don’t take what you hear or what you read at face value.”
Susan Bach of the Better Business Bureau says the best way to help Grandma and Grandpa stay safe is to warn them of what danger is out there.
She says two big scams are targeting the elderly in big numbers.
“Saying that their social security number has been connected to fraud or some sort of crime and that they are going to disable it.”
She says they also try to impact Grandparents’ heart.
“Somebody is impersonating a grandchild, saying that they are in trouble in a foreign country and that they need grandma or grandpa to wire them some money.”
The BBB says the best thing that the elderly targets can do is to refuse giving information and contact and friend or family member to help them.”Always verify the information,” Bach says. “They will tell you not to tell anybody, but that is exactly when you need to say something.”An ideal way to start a conversion with older relatives is by sharing a copy of DATCP’s senior scams bookmark, available by contacting DATCP’s Consumer Protection Hotline (800-422-7128 ordatcphotline@wi.gov). The bookmark provides a quick look at the main scams that target seniors and offers simple tips to spot fraud.
Other common scams that target senior citizens
Some of the common scams targeting seniors include:
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Tech support scams – a “computer technician” says you have a computer virus that they can repair in exchange for a payment and remote access to your computer.
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Timeshare resale fraud – someone claims that they have a buyer for your timeshare. After signing a phony “sales contract,” the victim is continuously asked for payments for document fees and other expenses.
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IRS/U.S. Treasury scams – a fake “federal agent” claims you owe back taxes and demands immediate payment.
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Medical alert/equipment fraud – scammers place robocalls to potential victims pitching “free” medical equipment and personal emergency alert systems. The items are often of questionable quality and are tied to recurring fees.
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Romance scams – a phony online love interest asks repeatedly for money.
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Prize/lottery fraud – a scammer claims that you have won a major prize but must pay them (repeatedly) for taxes or fees.
Review these simple tips with your relatives:
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Never wire money or give the account number and PIN code from a prepaid gift or money card to someone you don’t know. These payment methods are like handing over cash – the chance for recovery is slim to none.
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Don’t trust your caller ID. Scammers “spoof” the information to appear as a local number.
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Never engage with an unsolicited sales robocall. Taking any action may cause you to get additional calls. Hang up.
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Never provide personal information like your Social Security number or bank/credit card account numbers on an unsolicited call.
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Always check with a friend or family member before you act on a high-pressure sales pitch.
