In recognition of Seniors’ Safety Week, the North Bay Police Service (NBPS) is reminding older adults, their families and caregivers to recognize common scams and take steps to prevent fraud.
“Fraud targeting older adults is a significant concern. We continue to see higher rates of fraud victimization in older adults, but the real extent is difficult to measure because many incidents go unreported,” said Deputy Chief Robert Norman.
“Romance fraud can be particularly difficult because of the trust and emotional connections fraudsters build. Fraud can happen to anyone, and we want everyone to know there is no shame in reporting. Reports help us identify trends and prevent others from becoming victimization.”
Fraudsters use deception, urgency and fear to pressure victims into sharing personal information or sending money. Common scams include:
· Emergency and grandparent scams: Someone impersonates a family member in trouble and urgently requests money.
· Romance scams: Fraudsters build online relationships to gain trust before asking for money.
· Investment fraud: Fake opportunities promise high returns or guaranteed profits.
· Bank and government impersonation: Scammers pose as trusted organizations to obtain personal or banking information.
· Phishing and identity theft: Fraudulent emails, texts and websites attempt to steal personal information.
· Technology support scams: Scammers claim a device has a problem and request payment or remote access.
· Home improvement scams: Fraudsters offer unnecessary repairs or services, often using high-pressure sales tactics.
· Prize and lottery scams: Victims are told they have won a prize but must pay fees to collect it.
Financial abuse can also involve someone known to the victim. This includes unauthorized use of bank cards or financial accounts, pressure to change financial documents or misuse of Power of Attorney. Financial exploitation can occur within trusted relationships, including those involving family members or caregivers.
Fraud Prevention Tips:
· Never share passwords, PINs, banking information or verification codes.
· Verify requests directly with organizations using a trusted phone number.
· Be suspicious of urgent requests for money or demands for secrecy.
· Never send money, gift cards or cryptocurrency to someone you have only met online.
· Never give an unexpected caller remote access to your computer.
· Review bank statements and account activity regularly. Question unfamiliar transactions.
· Seek independent advice before signing financial documents or granting someone access to accounts.
To help protect yourself, always follow the “TAKE 5, TELL 2” fraud prevention strategy. Pause to think and consult two trusted people before acting.
NBPS encourages the public to report suspicious activity and remain alert. If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, please call 705-472-1234 to speak with an officer or call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. Your assistance can make a difference in ongoing investigations.
For more information about common scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Click Here For The Original Source.
——————————————————–
