Scams - How Not to Be a Victim

Ruth Mooney, NASC

Are you aware of the number of scams that are perpetrated on seniors on a regular basis? It is mind-boggling to say the least. As I was looking online for information about scams, the information was endless.

I chose three sites that gave good information on what scams are popular right now, and they provided valuable information that was easy to understand. In 2022 the top 10 scams are as follows: • Debt Collection • Fake Government Officials • Identify Theft, Phishing and Pharming • Phone Scams • Loan Scams • Fake Prizes, sweepstakes, free gifts, the lottery • Internet merchandising • Automobile related complaints (warranty and extended warranty) • Credit Bureau and related credit scores. • Phishing/Spoofing Emails

1) www.consumerfraudreporting.org

Learn more about the above scams at the following website:

2) www.usa.gov/scamsandfrauds

In addition to listing current scams, they give information on how to protect yourself, and the do’s and don’ts you should consider and how to report scams.

3) www.azag.gov/seniors/

consumerscams. On this site, they have a Senior Tool Kit. It is compiled by the Arizona Attorney General’s office. It’s 40 pages of information describing scams, identity theft, counterfeit check fraud, ATM fraud, Credit Card Fraud, Health Care fraud or Health Insurance fraud. In addition, they have information on caring for aging loved ones, elder abuse, and the taskforce against senior abuse (TASA). Also, there are the Top 10 consumer tips and how to protect yourself from fraud. Included are resource lists from Arizona Agencies and Organizations, U.S. Government Agencies, and Credit Reporting Agencies. Take time to check out these websites. Remember you are only a victim if you let yourself be one.

NASC members Carolyn Pakan (second from left) and Ruth Mooney (far right) welcomed (from left to right) Sergeant Dan Peters, Deputy Service Aide Jesse Brizendine, and Community Outreach Deputy Micheal Redman from Maricopa County Sheriff Office to Corte Bella.

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