SCAMS AIMED AT OLDER CITIZENS by Sidney Elkin
The internet has become a vehicle for hackers and con artists to rip off seniors and others with a variety of clever ruses.
1. HEALTH INSURANCE: Those who are eligible for Medicare may hear from insurance companies concerning Medicare options. Beware that scammers may pretend to be representatives of legitimate insurance plans in order to get your personal information. If you receive a communication by Email or phone, DO NOT GIVE OUT THIS INFORMATION. Ask for the name of the solicitor and the name and telephone number of the insurance company and then place the call to see if that person really represents the indicated company.
2. COUNTERFEIT PRESCRIPTION DRUGS: Because drug prices are so expensive many seniors and others scan the internet for more favorable prices. Finding bargains on the internet could result in receiving counterfeit drugs that may not be helpful for addressing your medical need. Until you have experience with an internet prescription seller, it is best to investigate the seller by calling for more information and also reading on line reviews of the company and their products.
3. EARLY ACCESS TO MICROSOFT WINDOWS 10: Some hackers are sending Emails offering early access to Microsoft Windows 10. If you allow them to download the alleged Windows 10, you may be duped and end up with a virus instead. The scammer may offer to cure the virus for a hefty service fee. You should know that Microsoft is upgrading Windows FREE. The legitimate offer will come by a computer notification asking you to make a reservation for a future installation.
4. LOWER CREDIT CARD INTEREST: Offers by internet or phone call to lower the interest rate on your credit card may not be legitimate. You should become concerned if the message or caller is asking for your information, credit card number, address, birth date or social security number. DO NOT TELL THEM ANYTHING. Instead call your credit card company to determine if they are offering a lower interest rate for your account. Your card company already has your information.
5. UTILITY BILLS OVERDUE: Internet, text message or a phone call may come your way with a scammer informing you that your utility bill is past due. They request an immediate payment by money order or prepaid credit card. Do not react to their requests. Call your utility company to determine if you are really behind and in what amount. Utility companies will make payment arrangements in most instances. Call ACP if you need assistance regarding establishment of utility payments.
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The Alliance for Consumer Protection (ACP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in New Brighton, Pennsylvania (USA). Our services are geared for elderly, low-income, homeless, minorities, disabled people and veterans but we are here for ALL in need of help, regardless of income. For 36 years the Alliance for Consumer Protection of Beaver County has been serving consumers in a variety of ways including the resolution of consumer/business complaints by facilitating the mediating and negotiating process. We have successfully handled such disputes as car repairs gone wrong, health, auto and home insurance payment issues, appliance warranties, contractor issues, utility issues, credit issues and more. A volunteer agency, we are dedicated to fair dealing in the market place.
CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS
ACP is looking for a few volunteers to assist in our Fallston office. The work is light but rewarding. General office skills are helpful. You would be answering phones and using the computer ( we will train you) to help consumers resolve their complaints or find answers to their questions. Just 1 day a week for a few hours, is all that is needed. If you are interested in discussing volunteering with ACP, please contact Randi Livengood at 724-770-2078 or email info@acp-beaver.org.