Write a commentRecently Oswego County Sheriff Reuel Todd visited Bishop's Commons and offered some valuable tips on how to avoid falling victim to scams related to consumer fraud. I thought this would be a good opportunity to review some safety pointers that may help keep you from becoming a victim of any devious con-artist.
The Federal Trade Commission estimates that 25 million Americans are victims of consumer fraud each year and 30% or more of this number are seniors. Adding to this disturbing statistic is the fact that only about one in a hundred cases of fraud involving seniors is ever reported to the authorities.
There are many aggressive and creative ways con artists use to try to steal your money or obtain personal information from you, whether it is over the telephone or through e-mail.
Remember, no legitimate company will solicit personal information from you by telephone or email. No legitimate contest or sweepstakes would expect any money in advance, or need your Social Security Number before they can process a claim "on your behalf".
To protect yourself always ask that information be provided to you in writing! That gives you a chance to review any material before making decisions. Many times making this request alone is enough to send a would-be "scammer" on his way looking for another victim.
Also, never give out any personal information over the phone or via an e-mail until you have verified that the company or charity being represented is legitimate. You can usually get information about a company or alleged charity's name at the Better Business Bureau's website (www.bbb.org).
Do not respond to an unsolicited e-mail message and never open an e-mail from a sender that you are unfamiliar with; just move it the "junk" email folder. Be especially leery of unexpected emails from a bank or other financial institution. Remember banks don't do business and never ask for confidential information by email.
If you feel you may have been a victim of an attempted scam or any other type of consumer fraud, contact the New York State Attorney General's Consumer Helpline at (800) 771-7755.
When it comes to spotting a potential scam, remember the old adage still rings true today; "If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is."
Julie Chetney is senior living director at St. Francis Commons Assisted Living Residence, 12 Burkle Street in Oswego. For more information, call (315) 326-0870. On the web at www.stfranciscommons.com.
