Scam Red Flags Your Senior Parents Should Watch Out for

Scammers have their eyes set on seniors because they look vulnerable and trusting. 

In a phone interview with CTVNews.ca, the acting client and communications outreach officer for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Jeff Horncastle, shared that in 2021 they received reports of 379 cases that involved 115 victims, with losses amounting to over $1.7 million. Therefore, to prevent your senior parents from being the victims, give them this Carefull's list of scam red flags to watch out for:

"You won--but you must pay first."  

When someone calls or sends an email saying they won something and must wire money or buy another item to claim it, this is probably a scam. The call or email may also be about an offer for a well-paid job, but they must send cash. Again, this is a possible scam.

"Someone is in the hospital; send cash now."

Call for emergencies, such as a family member is in the hospital and is in urgent need of medical attention and, therefore, asking them to send cash immediately, is also a red flag. Instead, tell them to call the said family member, you, or anyone in the family to verify this information. Do not communicate with the caller directly.  

"I am calling for (name of the government agency)."

They may also receive a call from somebody saying they are from a particular government agency and asking for personal information or payment. They must know that government agencies communicate through the mail. They will only call if your parents call them first.

"We need to verify your personal information."

They may receive a call asking for personal information. The caller may talk professionally and credibly but they must not give in immediately. Instead, they can tell the person on the other line that they will call back. Your parents can verify the caller's number if they represent the company they said they are calling for. However, if the caller does not want to end the call and insists on getting the requested information, they can hang up.

"We offer you an opportunity to earn money for a limited time."

If they receive an email, text, or phone call offering an easy way to earn money but for a limited time, ask them to ignore this. It is most likely a scam.

 

Even when talking to your parents (or the senior caregiver you hired) about these scam red flags, it is still possible that they may need help to think when they are already in the situation. Tell them that when they are in doubt because the sender or caller appears to be legitimate, they can show you the email message or ask for the caller's name so you can verify.