Information Center

Protecting Seniors from Fraud & Daily Safety Risks

Stay informed and protected with our comprehensive guides on fraud prevention, daily safety tips, and essential information designed specifically for older adults. Your safety and security are our top priorities.

Latest Safety Articles

Stay up-to-date with the latest fraud prevention techniques and daily safety information tailored for seniors.

Fraud Prevention Nov 15, 2024

How to Identify Phone Scams Targeting Seniors

Common Warning Signs:

  • Caller asks for personal information like Social Security numbers
  • Claims you've won a prize but need to pay fees first
  • Threatens immediate action if you don't comply
  • Requests payment via gift cards or wire transfers

Protection Strategies:

  • Never give personal information to unsolicited callers
  • Hang up and call the organization directly using official numbers
  • Register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry
  • Use caller ID and let unknown numbers go to voicemail

Remember: Legitimate organizations will never pressure you for immediate payment or personal information over the phone.

Online Safety Nov 12, 2024

Safe Online Shopping Tips for Older Adults

Before You Shop:

  • Look for "https://" and a lock icon in the address bar
  • Shop only on reputable websites (Amazon, Target, Walmart)
  • Read customer reviews and check return policies
  • Compare prices across multiple sites

Payment Security:

  • Use credit cards instead of debit cards for better protection
  • Never wire money or use gift cards for purchases
  • Check your statements regularly for unauthorized charges
  • Consider using PayPal or Apple Pay for added security

Tip: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and shop with established retailers.

Email Security Nov 10, 2024

Recognizing Email Phishing Attempts

Red Flags to Watch For:

  • Urgent language demanding immediate action
  • Generic greetings like "Dear Customer" instead of your name
  • Suspicious email addresses that don't match the company
  • Poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or awkward phrasing

What NOT to Do:

  • Never click links in suspicious emails
  • Don't download attachments from unknown senders
  • Never provide passwords or personal information via email
  • Don't reply to suspicious emails, even to unsubscribe

When in doubt: Contact the company directly using their official website or phone number to verify any suspicious requests.

Home Safety Nov 8, 2024

Home Safety Checklist for Daily Living

Fall Prevention:

  • Install grab bars in bathrooms and near stairs
  • Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing
  • Ensure stairways have handrails on both sides
  • Keep walkways clear of clutter and cords

Lighting & Visibility:

  • Install night lights in hallways and bathrooms
  • Ensure light switches are easily accessible
  • Use motion-sensor lights for outdoor areas
  • Keep flashlights in multiple locations

Emergency tip: Keep a list of important phone numbers near every phone, and consider a medical alert system.

Healthcare Nov 5, 2024

Medicare Fraud Warning Signs

Common Medicare Scams:

  • Offering "free" medical equipment in exchange for Medicare numbers
  • Billing for services or equipment you didn't receive
  • Fake Medicare representatives asking for personal information
  • Unsolicited offers for Medicare plan changes

Protect Yourself:

  • Guard your Medicare card like a credit card
  • Review your Medicare Summary Notices carefully
  • Only give your Medicare number to trusted healthcare providers
  • Report suspicious activity to Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE

Remember: Medicare will never call you unsolicited to ask for personal information or offer products.

Digital Privacy Nov 2, 2024

Social Media Privacy for Seniors

Privacy Settings to Check:

  • Set your profile to "Friends Only" instead of public
  • Limit who can find you using email or phone number
  • Turn off location sharing in your posts
  • Review what information appears in your profile

Safe Sharing Practices:

  • Never share your full birth date, address, or vacation plans
  • Be cautious about posting photos with personal information visible
  • Only accept friend requests from people you know personally
  • Think twice before clicking links shared by others

Golden rule: If you wouldn't share it with a stranger on the street, don't share it on social media.