We know that those 60 and over think of someone about 10 years older than they are right now, is “old”.
We’ve been warned about the effects of the Coronavirus on people 60 and over, and because of this, scammers follow the headlines and know you might have this on your mind.
As we speak, the scammers are making their way out of the dark corners to offer false hope offering Home test kits as a cure! They use fear (Your Social Security number is about to be revoked! Your loved one is in trouble!) in order to get your money or information.
They are asking for your bank routing number in order to “help” you get relief money. This is actually NOT how you’ll get it.
They’re sending out fake emails that look like they are from a real surce, but those fake World Health Organization or CDC emails are just trying to steal your personal information. Click on a link in one of those emails and they put malware on your computer, tablet, or phone.
Scammers are calling multiple time, from multiple phone numbers, using illegal robocalls to pitch you the latest scam. They’re texting, and they’re all over social media. You can try to place blocks on the incoming calls but because they use so many different numbers to call, it becomes a never ending battle.
So, while you’re washing your hands and working to stay safe, here are a few ways you can help protect yourself and those you love from scammers.
- Pass it on. If you get offered something too good to be true, or you’re worried that it’s something alarming: talk to someone you trust before you act. Ask, what do you think?
- Check it out. Before you act on something or share it , DON’T. Do your research. And ask yourself, do the facts back up the story?
- Don’t be rushed. Whatever the call, email, text, or social media post is about, remember that scammers try to rush you. Legit people don’t.
- Keep in touch with the FTC. Sign up for Consumer Alerts to help spot scams: ftc.gov/subscribe. And watch for the latest at ftc.gov/coronavirus.
- Report scams to the FTC. Go to ftc.gov/complaint. Your report can help us shut the scammers down.
Want to help even more? Pass this post on to a friend. And let’s be careful out there.
