LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — November through January is typically the biggest time of the year we see scams.
Often, scammers are using the method of ‘pulling on the heart strings.’
Scams fall into a lot of variety; some are low-key tech – which can be a simple go-fund-me.
They’re focused on charitable giving for a good cause – and while anyone can fall for this, seniors unfortunately are especially targeted, Greg Moody, Director of cybersecurity academic programs at UNLV shared with news 3
“They are being targeted because they are less tech savvy so they can’t go and verify. They are trusting. They came from a generation when there was a lot less scamming going on so as they’ve gotten older, they go ‘oh, of course this is the real thing.’
According to the FBI, there are a number of schemes scammers put together to get money and information from seniors.
- Romance scam
- Tech support scam
- Grandparent scam
- Home repair scams
- Government impersonation scam
- Sweepstakes/charity/lottery scam
- Tv/radio scam
- Family/caregiver scam
“There is also cognitive degeneration as we get older. This may have not been something that they did when they were 40, 50, or 60 but you find someone at Christmas time and they’re 82 and they say, ‘oh of course I’ll help you out,’ and they’re meaning good and that’s why they’re giving,” said Moody. “Elderly folks are contacted because they want social connection and if someone reaches out, they are more likely to respond, ‘you were nice to me, I’ll be nice to you.”
Anyone who has been scammed doesn’t always report it, including seniors, due to being ashamed that they were scammed or concerned that their family will lose confidence in their ability to handle their money.
It’s nothing to be ashamed of, but it is something to report to your local authorities.
Henderson Police have events set up for senior during this time for fraud prevention.
the classes are Tuesday Dec. 16 at 6p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 17 at 12p/m/ at the West Henderson Police Station.
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