Unfortunately Frauds and scams are a regular occurrence in all parts of the world. It is very important to be aware of the different ways people are being conned out of thousands of dollars every day. According to the Canadian government, older Canadians are more likely the target of these illegal activities. Many reasons why include: They are usually home during the day, they are more trusting, and they may not have family close by to ask for an opinion.
Common Scams
Identify Theft — this happens when someone takes personal information from an individual and uses it to apply for a credit cards, take out loans, or withdraw funds from their banks. Be sure to report to Service Canada, your bank and Credit Card company if you have lost or misplaced your wallet.
Credit/Debit card Frauds — a Con – artist uses your card or a copy of your card to make purchases or withdraw money from your account. Keeping your PIN secret, and difficult to memorize will decrease the risk associated with this type of fraud.
Online Scams — Generally sent via email, looking like an email from a company you may do business with example: Canadian Revenue Agency, Personal Bank or Credit Company. These emails often contain errors and ask for you to click a link and confirm personal details about you. Call to check, never respond to these emails. Most agencies will not message you for information they already have.
Telemarketing and Door-to Door Sales — Very common, people will come to your house or call your phone pretending to be from an employee of a company, charity or distant relative. They may offer a free prize, or a sap story about how they need money to get out of jail. If someone is calling you offering you something, thank them, and take down their contact information, let them know you need sometime to decide and you will call them back. Call the police, and report the strange call to them.
Be in the know and protect yourself and loved ones.
HomeCare on Wheels 