Free Event Looks to Tackle Senior Scams

We have all received those calls where someone on the other side of the phone may not be who they say they are. Maybe some of us have even had a knock at the door that resulted in some type of swindling. Unfortunately, in today’s world it is so easy to be targeted for financial scams whether we are young, old or somewhere in between. However, according to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s website, statistically, senior citizens are favored targets for many kinds of consumer fraud including identity theft, charities, telemarketing and sweepstakes fraud. So, as a savvy senior, how can you protect yourself and your family?

A great start to learn about the latest scams would be to attend the SCAM JAM on October 24, 2017 at the Beaver Springs Senior Center. This event will feature a top-notch investigative expert from the PA Attorney General’s office to go over the most common scams, Snyder County District Attorney Michael Piecuch to talk about local fraud targeted at our seniors and representatives from AARP and the PA Banking Commission.

One thing any expert will tell you is that the crooks are fast. Before law enforcement can crack one scheme, the thieves have already moved on to their next plan. And did I mention that they are everywhere? With track phones and masking of phone numbers, it’s not uncommon to receive a call from a crook in a country very, very far away posing as your volunteer fire department right down the street. When a local phone number appears on the caller ID, we are all more susceptible to answering the call.

We think we have our radar up and won’t fall susceptible to one of these scams, but no matter how cautious we are, the scammers are smarter than anyone can imagine. Sometimes a caller will pose as a grandchild needing money, but it’s really not. We are all scared of the consequences of not paying our taxes, so when someone calls from the IRS, our first instinct is always to comply. They may not even ask for the “obvious” things like social security numbers, etc. Sometimes they can tap into other information that will lead them to your bank account.

The experts at the Scam Jam will go into more detail about the most recent developments in scams and tell you how to protect yourself.

Although it can feel embarrassing if you fall victim to one of these scams, it’s always important to report the incident to authorities. Recovering money lost to these scams can be an INCREDIBLY difficult process, but it’s important to involve the right people and share your experiences with others to educate and protect them from similar scams.

The SCAM JAM presented by PA Link in conjunction with several other organizations, will be held on October 24, 2017 at the Beaver Springs Senior Center. In addition to our speakers, the event will also feature Fraud Bingo with prizes and a light breakfast and lunch. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to UDS at 1-888-837-4235. There is no charge for the event.