MILWAUKEE, Wis. (WFRV) – Recently, the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau released the top scams used to take advantage of older adults and the elderly while also providing tips on how to avoid becoming a victim.
According to a release, investment/cryptocurrency scams continue to be the riskiest scams for those aged 55+, with romance scams being the riskiest for those who are aged 65+.
BBB officials also say purchase scams and home improvement scams are towards the top of the list when it comes to attempting to trick older or elderly community members.
When it comes to scams, officials say it is important to know the red flags. The following are some of the most common ‘too-good-to-be-true’ tactics scammers use to get a victim’s money or personal information:
- “Free,” “low cost,” or “buy one, get one” deal
- Request for unusual payment types (i.e., prepaid debit cards or wired funds)
- Claims that you only pay postage or administrative fees
- Pressure to act now and/or aggressive tones
- Deals that must be secured with a credit card or bank account information
- Sure-fire investment opportunities
- Charities that send 100% of your donation directly to the victims
Officials also add that potential victims should keep in mind that it is easy to spoof caller IDs. No matter what the caller ID says, government agencies will not make unsolicited calls, and when in doubt, the best thing to do is hang up the phone and call the official source to verify the original call.
Other ways to avoid becoming a victim of a scam include the following:
- Register a personal phone number on the National Do-Not-Call registry
- Reduces the number of unsolicited phone calls
- Only hire trustworthy, licensed contractors
- Don’t hire someone who just shows up at the door for work around the home or for an inspection.
- Use the BBB website to search for accredited businesses that can help with repair work and other home-related needs.
- Think before clicking
- Older adults commonly have difficulty with modern technology.
- Links found in unsolicited emails or social media posts and comments can be dangerous.
- Only click on links that come from people who are known and trusted
- Keep antivirus software up to date on all electronic devices.
- Guard personal information carefully
- Never share personal information with strangers via phone, email, or on social media.
- Review bank statements, credit statements, and transactions regularly to check for accuracy.
For more information on how to avoid falling victim to a scam, click here. If someone has already become a victim of a scam, find resources on what to do and report it here.
