By Regina Ford
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! This is just one of six signs of a scam or fraud listed in a warning page issued by Ellen Rosenblum, the Oregon Attorney General.
Following are the Six Signs It Is a Scam:
- Scammers contact you out of the blue. They pretend to be from the IRS, or a debt collection agency. They tell you that you must pay them now or risk prosecution.
- Scammers claim there is an emergency. They tell you that you have to claim your prize right away or they say a relative needs you to wire them money immediately.
- Scammers ask for your personal information. They pose as the government, your bank, or a healthcare provider. If anyone asks you for your personal information like your social security number or bank account numbers over the phone—hang up!
- Scammers ask you to wire money or buy pre-paid debit cards. This is the easiest way for them to get your money. Scammers also may tell you that they need your information to switch your credit card to the new “chip” type. Not true. Don’t fall for it.
- Scammers tell you to keep it a secret. They don’t want you to discuss your transaction because your relatives and friends would question it and intervene. Check with people you trust before acting on a deal.
- If it sounds too good to be true—it probably is. It is always better to be cautious than to be a victim.
Our Washington County District Attorney, Bob Hermann, prosecutes cases of fraud and elder abuse. If you or someone you know has fallen prey to a scammer, you can call the Consumer Complaint Hotline at 1-877-877-9392. To report elder abuse or neglect, call 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). If a person is at immediate physical risk, call 911.
This story is sponsored by United Homecare Services. If you are interested in finding out more or scheduling a no-obligation consultation, call 503-433-8079.
The post Preventing Elder Scams: Know the signs appeared first on Beaverton Resource Guide.
