The holiday season is a time of joy, festivity, and giving, however, it's also a time when scams targeting seniors tend to spike. These scams, masked in the spirit of the season, can sometimes be difficult to recognize. They can come in various forms such as fraudulent charity donations, deceptive gift card scams, fake shopping websites, and phishing emails or calls from banks or the IRS.
Common Types of Holiday Scams Targeting Seniors
The holiday season often brings with it a surge in scams, specifically targeting seniors. One such scam is fraudulent charity donations. Scammers may impersonate well-known charities, or create fake ones, soliciting funds for a noble cause. Gift card scams are another common tactic, where seniors are duped into purchasing gift cards for scammers under various pretexts, like owing money to the IRS. Fake shopping websites, designed to look like trusted retailers, can trick seniors into divulging their credit card information. Lastly, don't forget about phishing emails or calls where scammers impersonate banks or the IRS, tricking seniors into sharing personal information.
Actionable Tips to Recognize and Avoid Scams
Recognizing holiday scams targeting seniors is the first line of defense. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Verify
Always verify the legitimacy of a charity before donating. Seniors can do this by visiting the charity's official website or checking it on a charity assessment site like GuideStar or Charity Navigator.
Keep Personal Info Personal
Avoid giving out personal information, especially financial, over the phone or email. Legitimate organizations, including your bank or the IRS, will never ask for sensitive information through such channels.
Secure Websites
When shopping online, ensure the sites you use are secure. Look for 'https://' at the start of the web address and a padlock symbol in the browser window. These are signs that the site is secure and uses encryption to protect your data.
The Role of Caregivers in Preventing Scams
Discussing potential scams with caregivers or family members can also be a great defense. Regularly communicate with your caregivers about the calls you receive, the emails in your inbox, and any purchases you plan to make. They can help you verify the authenticity of such interactions and advise you on the best course of action. A second opinion is always valuable, especially when it comes to financial transactions.
Senior Helpers Greenwood & South Indianapolis Provides Support for Seniors and Their Families
While scams targeting seniors become increasingly common during the holiday season, they can occur any time of the year. Staying vigilant, securing personal information, and verifying the legitimacy of charities or shopping sites are essential practices for everyone, particularly seniors. If an offer or a demand feels urgent or too good to be true, it probably is.
At Senior Helpers Greenwood & South Indianapolis, we're dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors in Indianapolis, Greenwood, Columbus, Martinsville, and Marion County. If you or your loved ones require additional support or guidance, reach out to us. With our expertise, we can help you navigate these challenging situations and ensure a peaceful, joyous holiday season.