Hanging up can guard against frauds, scams

Indeed, anyone who collects the mail for a senior citizen knows that they are receiving far more requests for money then others. Envelops look legitimate, they have fancy letterhead and are worded to cause the reader to feel guilt and obligation and then send money to help.

Telephone scams use talented actors who appear charming and friendly, and are very convincing. Sometimes they use disturbing pressure tactics to get commitment and cash. They offer free prizes that turn out to be quite costly in the end.

Travel Clubs and time-share programs, as many have discovered, are also making their mark at public events. While these companies could be legitimate, they may not be offering a deal that is good for you…and they want you to believe that it is an offer that is too good to be true, that you must act on it right away.

If it seems too good to be true, listen to your heart and do some investigating. Anything that is offered for free should be just that. Free address labels sent to your home do not require you to respond with a donation. An offer of free pens over the phone should be just that, free pens with no obligation.

An offer for a free trip? You guessed it, it should be free. Crafty companies may not give you all of the details in the beginning. But, the rules for you are simple! Do not give your credit card number over the phone unless you have made the contact or placed the call. Any phone call or survey that requires personal information, particularly a number, should be refused.

Mail requests are organized to target generous givers—and most often to target seniors. Sending small amount of cash to each one seems like a good idea, but all it does is flag the system to send you even more requests. Please keep this in mind.

The simplest explanation you need to give to a caller is: “ I do not conduct business over the phone.” Most importantly, hang up. Do not feel bad for protecting yourself and for staying informed.

Dawn Thomas is seniors’ safety coordinator for the Town and Municipality of Digby