In the United States, every day, more and more Internet scams targeting seniors are being discovered by law enforcement. By pretending to be someone they’re not, social media sites are used by scammers and fraudsters. Unfortunately, this threat is growing. Every year, it is estimated that fraud cheats retirement age individuals out of an approximated $3 billion. Most of these crimes occur via Internet scams.
Online fraud is well known but, unfortunately, not all aging adults are aware of it. They may not have been introduced to some of the most recent trends for scammers or they may not be able to spot scams due to the lack of a higher level of technical know-how.
So that online fraud does not claim your loved one as a victim, we’re going to list some of the most common scams to watch for.
Social Media
These scams involve communication channels through sites like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Someone may ask you to donate to a charity or tell you they need money quickly, posing as someone you know.
Malware
Your tablet, phone, or computer can be infected by a virus when you click on an email attachment or go to a website. Banking information, passwords, and more can be stolen. They may even be able to monitor your computer.
Advanced Fee Scam
The story usually goes as follows: To transfer funds from their country, a government official or wealthy businessperson needs your help and your bank account. You’ll get a lot of money in exchange for your assistance. Never hand out your banking information!
Tech-Support Scam
Your computer screen may show you a pop-up that says it’s been infected by a virus. It may appear to come from someone credible like Apple or Microsoft. Don’t click on it! If you feel like you need tech support, hire a reliable company or person you know.
Impersonating the IRS
Someone tells you that you owe penalties or back taxes and claims to be an IRS agent. They may demand a wire transfer or credit card and sound very threatening. Be aware – this is not the way the IRS goes about doing business.
Social Security Scam
Someone tells you they need to confirm your Social Security Number, issue you a new card, update their records, etc. They claim to be from the Social Security Administration. They are not! Don’t give them any information.
Grandma/Grandpa Scams
Someone may pretend to be a police officer, attorney, or a relative who needs help/money to get out of a particular situation. Always verify the situation with another family member if you get a message like this.
“Free” Gifts
Nothing is free! In fact, if someone offers to send you a free gift but they’ll need some kind of payment for shipping costs, etc., tell them to keep it. Never pay someone for something that’s supposed to be free. If you didn’t order it – ignore it.
Our Retirement Community Offers a Safe, Peaceful Respite To Those in Their Golden Years.
If your loved one lives at home alone, and they are of a certain age, you might worry more about them than you used to. With so many hours alone, they may end up turning to the Internet for socialization and entertainment. There’s nothing wrong with that, unless they’re taken in by an Internet scam.
For an environment that promotes safety, good health, socialization, productivity, and independence – yet offers the care and attention your loved one needs – you can rely on any one of our retirement living options.
Feel free to contact us. General inquiries can be directed to 219-764-2900. For sales and leasing inquiries regarding our residences, please call 219-207-7185. If you’d like, you can fill out and send in our convenient online form. We’ll get back to you ASAP.
To experience all we have to offer and speak to our team members one-on-one, schedule a tour today. We look forward to meeting you.
