In our five part series on scams targeting seniors, we are going to tell you the types of scams to look out for and how to protect yourself against them. In this final entry for this series we give you the resources you need to report potential fraud.
So what do you do if you think you have been a victim of fraud? If you are a senior or know a senior that has been a victim of fraud, be sure to report the act immediately. Seniors can contact the following agencies for more information:
Federal Trade Commission – www.ftc.gov or 877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) – The FTC enforces federal consumer protection laws that prevent fraud, deception and unfair business practices. Whether combating telemarketing fraud, Internet scams or price-fixing schemes, the FTC’s primary mission is to protect consumers.
Better Business Bureau – www.bbb.org – The BBB’s mission is to promote and foster the highest ethical relationship between businesses and the public through voluntary self-regulation, consumer and business education, and service excellence. You can find your local office on the BBB’s Web site.
The National Fraud Information Center – www.fraud.org or (800) 876-7060 – The NFIC is a project of the National Consumers League and was designed to help people learn about fraud and file complaints. Additional information about how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud is listed on their Web site.
American Association of Retired Persons – www.aarp.org – AARP provides seniors with information on financial planning, using home equity, avoiding fraud, and consumer rights.
Remember, we are Comfort Keepers 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.
