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Helping Elders Avoid Fraud Schemes
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Technology is a great way to help
seniors stay entertained and connected with loved ones
and friends who are far away. However, technology can
also become a double-edged sword as less tech savvy
elders are increasingly at risk for online scams and
other financial abuse.
A common ruse involves
Medicare discount cards, prescription drugs,
anti-aging drugs, and investment and mortgage schemes.
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In a
Los Angeles Times article, one
survey suggests that nearly 20% of seniors have been
victims of a potential scam.
While nearly anyone with an email account is susceptible
to financial scams, seniors appear to be particularly
targeted for many reasons. In particular, older
generations are not as familiar with online
communications or the exposure to online banking, email
language and the widespread news regarding privacy
protection.
Additionally, senior citizens can be very polite and
trusting, all of which are fabulous traits, but ones
that can easily get them in trouble in an online world.
What looks like a fun way to earn prizes or enter a
sweepstakes can easily turn into identity theft or an
empty bank account with just a few clicks.
The following are steps that can be employed to avoid
becoming victims of fraud:
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Educating seniors regarding these
‘too good to be true’ scams. If it seems fishy,
avoid it.
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If an online transaction is
questionable, seniors should not enter personal
information unless in the presence of a person they
trust.
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If they use email, help or teach
them to delete their spam and/or change their email
settings to help filter these junk types of emails.
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If a senior is inexperienced with
online banking or transactions, it may be best to
have them manage their money using the traditional
methods of face-to-face communications at a local
bank.
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Caregivers can assist in monitoring how an elder
person is using the Internet.
Caregivers can assist
in monitoring how an elder person is using the Internet.
Online phishing schemes can be incredibly elaborate,
attracting even Internet savvy folks to provide
passwords, login information and social security numbers
to those who intend harm. Some even disguise themselves
as a financial institution with which you do business.
For more information on protecting seniors from online
or offline financial abuse, check out:
http://www.fbi.gov/scams-safety/fraud/seniors
The information in
the article is not intended to substitute for the
medical expertise and advice of your healthcare
provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions
about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare
provider.
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