You Don't Have to be a Victim
Seniors are targeted almost daily by various scams and scam artists. Some of these come by US Mail, phone calls, text messages and some are emails. The theme in common with all of these scams is "send money". An easy to remember rule for any sweepstakes is that you do NOT have to pay money upfront before getting a winnings check.
One of the common scams requires the senior to go to bank or a grocery store and send a money order to a specified individual. The amounts start out small and the individual might actually give a small amount back to the senior as "winnings". Then, when they build credibility with the senior, they will go after progressively larger and larger amounts till all the money is gone.
Another good tip to remember is that one person does not "win" the sweepstakes that many times in quick succession.
Here are some helpful links so you can familiarize yourself with some of the more common scams. Don’t become the next victim!
Phony Sweekstakes
Phony Lotto
Actual Cases - so sad...
How to help if your parents fall into the trap
This scam has also been affecting Atlanta
Family member in trouble scam
Now that you are "in the know" and can protect yourself against these scams, reach out to your friends and make sure they are protected as well.
