AVOIDING SCAMS
AVOIDING SCAMS
By Ruth Pradzynski
Seniors are often targeted by scammers and fraudsters. An article published by the Government of Saskatchewan in 2023 indicated that “Twenty-nine per cent of Canadians know a senior who has been impacted by financial abuse.” Older adults are frequently targeted by fraudsters. Here are some common fraud set-ups, and how not to be taken advantage of.
- Romantic schemes: Initiated on dating or social media sites, scammers build up relationships over time, before asking for large sums of money. Frequently these fake “friends” or “lovers” are from overseas, making them especially difficult to track.
Warning signs: They can’t do a video chat, due “technical issues” – actually because they’re not who they say they are.
What to do: Don’t send money to a romantic interest you meet online.
- Grandchild scams: the Fraudster impersonates a relative, often a grand-child in a panic. They’re in serious trouble and need money sent immediately. Then they pass the phone to their “attorney” before you can really recognize the voice.
Warning signs: The money must be sent immediately, by credit card or online e-transfer. The contact came by social media or e-mail.
What to do: Stop. Check in with the person, or a family member with a known phone number to confirm the situation, before sending anything.
- Computer software or virus scam: A pop-up ad or e-mail says your computer has been hacked, and demands payment.
What to do: Delete immediately. Do not click on the attachment.
- Government agency scams: The scammer impersonates someone from Canada Revenue Agency or another government agency demanding payment or a transfer of funds, so you will avoid a penalty or jail time.
Warning signs: The “Government agent” does not verify you, by providing your Social insurance number, or details from your last tax return.
What to do: Demand verifying information, and ask them to e-mail out a notice of assessment to show what you owe. If they refuse, it’s a scam.
I will provide another four or five scams next month. Take care, and don’t get scammed!