For scammers, seniors are the "Ideal" victims.

Telephone Awareness  

• Scammers use a technic called "spoofing".  ​When making scam calls they attempt to use telephone numbers with your area code. If you don't recognize the number - - - Don't answer.
• Grandparent fraud - scammers pretend to be or calling on behalf of a family member in trouble. Do NOT agree to send money or prepaid credit cards.

• Hang-up

• Call the family member in question

• Reach out to the family member directly

Out and About

• Be Alert - Don't become distracted

• Protect your information when you are out

• Don't carry your social security card in your wallet or anything with your social security number on it

• Minimize the number of credit/debit cards you carry with you

• Be sure to have the customer service telephone numbers for your credit cards written down

• Use the "turn off" option for credit/debit cards if you think your card has been compromised.

• Do not fasten your purse to your shopping cart.

• Ladies, try to take only your wallet in the store with you and keep it close to your heart (in your bra).

• Men, do not put your wallet in your back pocket 

At Home

• NEVER give your Social Security Number or other personal information out over the phone - if the person on the phone says they are from your bank or credit card company - they already have your information.
• NEVER leave valuables in your car - if you must be sure they are out of view.
• Home alone and someone is at your door. 

• Never open the door if you do not know the person on the other side.

• You do NOT have to answer the door.

• ake noise (turn TV volume up, talk loudly, etc.) People will usually not knowingly break into an occupied home.