Protect Seniors From Scams

This week I’d like to tell you the story of how my Granny hired a tradesperson to paint her roof. Clearly, as a representative of Consumer Affairs I advise against hiring tradespeople who come to the door (if for no other reason that you shouldn’t open your door to strangers). Granny was actually outside with a neighbour when approached, so we can let the security issue slide, but just as importantly, she took the basic steps necessary to avoid being targeted for a scam.

She got references from others who had used their services, asked for a quote, had a contract signed up with work, materials and payment schedules, and she refused to turn over more than the cost of the materials at the start of the job. If you heard her talk, she’d say that these roof painters were foxes in sheep’s clothing and she’d be crazy to act otherwise with any worker she hired. It may sound a bit paranoid, until you hear of how many clients come to Consumer Affairs because tradespeople disappeared mid-project or were victims of other scams, many of whom were unsuspecting seniors.

There are numerous steps to take to avoid being conned or being the victim of identity theft: use a paper shredder for all personal documents, rather than throwing them in the trash where thieves may find them; check your credit card and bank’s monthly transactions regularly to check for irregularities; and never share your personal identification numbers (PINs) or passwords with anyone, or use easily guessed ones such as birthdates, middle names or spouse’s names.

Filing isn’t just for the office. Store your birth certificate, passport, new and cancelled checks, credit card statements, medical bills and any other personal data in a safe place. To avoid spam e-mail or spam pop-ups on the Internet, use filters and security programmes. Most are available free online, but you may phone your internet service provider (ISP) to get more information on the security measures they use and recommend. If someone still manages to contact you, do not give out your personal information by phone or e-mail.

Most importantly, do not respond to e-mails that suggest you can make a fortune. There are no “free” vacations being given out to random Internet users, there are no jobs that you can get rich from by doing nothing, and there are no legitimate Nigerian millionaires that just need your help with a “small banking problem”. As well, proper charities are registered and have the documentation in place to show you upon request.

Think you may have messed up and already given away personal information, agreed to a handyman without getting a quote or contract, or have been told that a project has gone over budget and needs more money or they can’t finish it for you?

If you’ve given away personal information, call your bank or credit card company and alert them to your situation. File a police report of who has your personal data. If it’s a consumer mistake, immediately stop paying a contractor or internet company until you get a contract in place and have the company checked out properly and call Consumer Affairs to help.

Seniors in particular are vulnerable to con artists who attempt to use high pressure tactics like rushing payments or promising worst case scenarios if they aren’t hired immediately. As a rule seniors should have someone they trust to discuss potential business transactions with before they sign anything. The National Office for Seniors and the Physically Challenged can be contacted at 292-7802 to provide such guidance. As well, Age Concern is a Bermudian advocate group directed at linking seniors to the necessary resources. Contact them at 238-7525.