photo credit: DieselDemon
It’s not easy to spot a con artist, because they can be very smart, persuasive and aggressive. They can appear to be friendly and helpful to confuse the senior.
Most people think they are too smart to fall for a scam, but there are many people who have lost large sums of money to someone they thought they could trust.
Watch out for:
- Someone claiming that you owe them money for an item ordered by a deceased spouse.
- Ads on television, or in newspapers or magazines that offer quick cures for all kinds of diseases.
- Don’t fall for anything that sound too good to be true, such as free vacation, low-risk investments, and get rich quick schemes.
Protect yourself by:
- Keeping up to date on scams in your area. If you suspect any scams, call your local police department.
- Saying no and hanging up if someone on the telephone becomes assertive. You can end the conversation.
- Never giving a caller your credit card number, or social security number.
- Asking a friend or a family member their opinion on the offer.
- Join a Neighborhood Watch group.
If someone takes advantage:
- Don’t be embarrassed. Report them to the police, consumer protection office, district attorney’s office, or a consumer advocacy group.
- Your information will help catch the con artist and prevent others from being a victim
At Comfort Keepers we seek to be a resource to you because we are Comfort Keepers caregivers and we are here to help! Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
