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SENIORS VS CRIME

 A special project of The Florida Attorney General  

   

                                    

Seniors vs Crime

Ten Tips on Avoiding Scams


Plus One Very Important One
If you don't have a paper shredder, get one! Shred any and all papers going into your trash that have any kind of personal information on them. This is where a lot of ID theft starts.

 

  •                                                 Ten Tips

    1.  If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.                                                               
    2. Screen phone calls. If you see phone calls coming from a number you don't recognize, or see "private", "anonymous" or "unknown caller" come up on your caller ID. Don't answer, allow the call to go to voicemail. If the call is important they will leave a message.
    3. Beware of email or phone calls that seek  personal information. Avoid giving out credit card, checking account, social security or medicare numbers.
    4. Don't allow unsolicited salespeople into your home. If a salesperson does come into your home and starts to use high pressure tactics or insists on an immediate decision, tell them to leave immediately, if they don't call Law Enforcement.
    5. Avoid being put on "Sucker" lists. Don't fill out forms at fairs,malls or on the internet. The prize is not worth it!
    6. Know the person you are dealing with. If it is an unfamiliar company or charity, check it out. Call Seniors vs Crime, we will help but not recommend.
    7. Most scams demand money up front. Never consent to auto pay from your bank or sign a credit agreement from the seller. Check with your bank first.
    8. Beware of chain letters, gifting clubs, multi-level or network marketing. These are all pyramid schemes and are illegal.
    9. Beware of work at home schemes, such a being paid to take surveys, mystery shopping, or network marketing. If you are required to pay up front to get the job are or told you need to buy manuals or product. Run... don't walk away.
    10. If you receive an item in the mail that you didn't order, it is considered a gift. If you get bills or collection letters from a seller who sent you something you didn't order, write to the seller stating that it was considered a gift and that you are not paying. If you are still billed contact Seniors vs Crime.

Paul C Cameron, Webmaster

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