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10 Easy Tips to Keep Seniors Safe From Financial Abuse

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1. Every telephone number should have caller I.D.

If you don't know the phone number calling, DO NOT ANSWER 

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2. The IRS, Social Security Administration, Police/Sheriff, or SDG&E will never call threatening fines or jail time in return for immediate payment. 

If you have questions about such calls, please look up the official phone numbers and call directly. 

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3. Gift Cards are for giving gifts not making payments. Never purchase gift cards at the direction of someone you don't know. 

If pressured to do so, call the police immediately.

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4. Choose a caregiver with caution.

Hire through a reputable agency and request that the caregiver submit to a background check. 

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5.Keep an inventory of all jewelry.

Jewelry is the #1 item stolen from seniors. 

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6. Protect your incoming and outgoing mail and purchase a shredder. 

Do not let your mail sit in an unsecured mailbox for too long. Have financial statements sent to a trusted family member or rent a post office box. Shred discarded mail or financial statements containing identifying information. 

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7. Obtain a Credit search on yourself at least two or three times a year to discover whether someone has used your identity. 

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8. You will never win a foreign lottery or sweepstakes. These are scams. 

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9. Don't assume the friendly handyman or car mechanic is licensed or qualified. 

Obtain several bids in writing, check the contractor through the BBB or state licensing board and never pay more than 10% of the contract price up front.

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10. Don't fall in love online without meeting someone face to face and never send money to a love interest who you have not met in person.

Romantic scams are prolific and result in significant financial loss.  

 

Bonus Tip: Your grandchild is not in jail in a foreign country

This is one of the most popular senior scams. Hang up. Call your loved one directly to confirm. 

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