Scam Protection Tips

A recent incident involving a Lifescape Meals on Wheels client highlights the need for seniors to be aware of those who want to scam you. A man had called a Rochelle couple who had just recently enrolled in the program. According to the couple's granddaughter, the man called twice and demanded payment for the service. The man didn't say how he was to have been paid, but the telephone calls were enough to frighten the couple who have debilitating illnesses. The incident was reported to the police and to the local media for immediate publication and broadcast.

Of course, Lifescape Community Services only accepts donations from its Meals on Wheels clients and we never telephone. Monthly statements are issued and clients are simply asked to pay what they can for the service. No money is ever demanded.

But this is only an example of the types of schemes and scams of which seniors are targeted. In fact, not long after we received the call from Rochelle, another client called saying she had been told of winning a lottery. All she had to do was pay the processing fee of several hundred dollars.  The caller was so gracious; he even offered to drive her to the bank to make the withdrawal!

The Illinois Attorney General's office has created information offering tips to prevent consumer fraud and avoid common scams. It's available on-line at www.IllinoisAttorneyGeneral.gov.In it you'll find the best ways to detect and deal with instances of fraud involving telemarketing, home improvement, charities, health care and sweepstakes. It's important for everyone, but most importantly seniors, to be aware of those who want their money and will go about any means to get it.

In an article on the website About.com/Senior living, there are six important tips to avoid senior scams --

Sign up for Direct Deposit at your bank

If you receive checks on a regular basis – social security, disability or stock dividends – have them direct deposited into your bank account.

Reduce telemarketer calls

Reduce or eliminate the number of calls you get by registering with the federal government's "Do Not Call Registry." You can register your cell or landline phone online at www.donotcall.gov or by phone at 1-888-382-1222.

Ignore direct mail advertising

If you receive an offer saying you won a contest or a cruise, please read the fine print for hidden costs. If you decide to accept the offer, have someone you trust for a second opinion before you sign up.

Watch out for Medicare drug discount cards

There are legitimate drug discount cards that are offered that can save you money, that's why this is a favorite among scammers.  Before you buy anything, check with Medicare directly for a list of approved companies. The list is online at www.medicare.gov/assistanceprograms or you can call 1-800-633-4227. Medicare drug cards are not sold over the phone or door-to-door. You will not have to provide proof of income or bank account information. If you're asked to, you're dealing with a scammer.

Assign a power of attorney

Unfortunately, many people are taken advantage of because of a medical condition or injury and cannot make good decisions for themselves. It's important to name a power of attorney that is legally empowered to make such choices before you become too ill to make this important decision.

Avoid disclosing personal or financial information

Often scammers will call or contact a senior asking for bank account or other financial information to correct a problem. Be sure and ask for a name and phone number to call them back. Make the call to insure you're dealing with a legitimate company. If you can't confirm you're dealing with a real company, don't provide the information.

We are all potential victims of scammers. But seniors are targeted more frequently. Armed with this information, we'll all be better prepared the next time we're approached by someone who wants our money.

To report suspected scams, contact the Rockford office of the Better Business Bureau at 815-963-2222 and the Illinois Attorney General's office at 1-800-243-5377.