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Anyone can be victimized and fall prey to a shrewd con artist. So how can you spot a scam? Here are some tips to help you recognize if the letter, phone call or E-mail you receive is a scam:

  • The offer sounds too good to be true-then it probably is.
  • The salesperson uses high pressure tactics or is intimidating - watch out for phrases like: "you will lose out if you don't act now"... "you must pay immediately"... "you must pay cash"
  • You must pay up front to receive your prize - Legitimate businesses do not ask for money up front-even for taxes, shipping and handling.
  • Cash only deals
  • The person or company won't give you written details about the offer
  • The offer is from an unfamiliar company, often without a street address or direct telephone number

If you receive a telephone call that includes any of these characteristics, just hang up. You don't have to listen. Remember: telemarketing fraud is a crime and the people who practice it are criminals. Be sure to never give your credit card, social security # or any other personal information out over the telephone or by E-mail unless you initiate the contact. A con artist can use this information to withdraw funds from your bank account or order new credit cards in your name. What should you do if you think you are a victim of a scam? Call your financial institution and then contact your local police department immediately. Advice is also available by calling the numbers listed below:

Norfolk District Attorney
(781) 830-4800
(617) 769-6100

Attorney General's Elderly Hotline
1-888-243-5337

National Fraud Information Center
1-800-876-7060 Other Resources for SeniorsAmerican Association of Retired Persons (AARP)601 E. St. NW
Washington, DC 20049
Phone: 1-800-424-3410
www.aarp.com

AARP is the nation's leading organization for people age 50 and older. It serves their needs and interests through information and education, advocacy and community services, which are provided by a network of local chapters and experienced volunteers throughout the country. The organization also offers members a wide range of special benefits and services, including Modern Maturity magazine and the Monthly Bulletin.

U.S. Government Administration on Aging Administration on Aging (AoA)
330 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20201
1-800-677-1116, (202) 619-7501
Fax: (202) 260-1012
www.aoa.dhhs.gov

This website includes information designed for older Americans and their families as well as those concerned about providing the opportunities and services to enrich the lives of older persons and support their independence.

Access American for Seniors
www.seniors.gov

This is a website which provides seniors with one site where they can access government services and information. It deals with taxes, benefits, and Social Security.

National Fraud Information Center (NFIC)1-800-876-7060
www.fraud.org

The National Fraud Information Center is a nationwide toll-free hotline for consumers to get advice about telephone solicitations and report possible telemarketing fraud to law enforcement agencies. In 1996, the Internet Fraud Watch was created, enabling the NFIC to offer consumers advice about promotions in cyberspace and route reports of suspected online and Internet fraud to the appropriate government agencies. The NFIC's trained counselors help consumers identify the danger signs of possible fraud and direct them to the right places for more information, if needed. Consumers can also report suspected telemarketing or Internet fraud through the NFIC hotline or web site.