Scams Targeting Seniors -
Protect Yourself & Your Loved Ones!
LCCC Older Adult Specialists in our Resource Advocacy program are seeing an increasing number of scams via on-line, mail and phone, with the senior population. Your donations help to provide much needed services to seniors in Livingston County!
Recently, 4 clients presented to us their dilemma from recent scams that cost over $60,000 between the 4 of them.
Here are some key ways to protect yourself or your loved one:
- Always be suspicious of anyone calling and asking for money.
- Always tell solicitors that you do not buy from, give to or provide information to anyone over the phone or internet! Truthfully,Just Hang Up The Phone!
- Never provide any personal information (Medicare number, Social Security number, birth date, credit card or banking information, etc.) to unsolicited requests whether by phone, mail or e-mail.
- Use Direct Deposit for your benefit checks to avoid having them stolen from your mailbox.
- Take your time with decisions. Do not allow yourself to be pressured.
- Do your research at Michigan.gov Department of Attorney General Consumer Alerts & sign up for their e-mail alerts.
- If a "pop-up" appears on your computer stating you have a virus or other issue, immediately power down your computer with the power button. Do not click on the pop up, even to "x" close it out. That can initiate worms, spyware, viruses, etc.
Seniors or those caring for an elderly family member, call Penny or Melodie at LCCC at 517-545-5944 to see how we can help with your needs.
