Red Flags of Fraud

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Across the United States, scam robo-calls make the way into voice mail boxes and emails of people all ages. People aged 50+ tend to fall for such scams far more than others. In 2019, it is estimated that 44.6% of cell phone calls will be robo or scam calls, which is nearly every other call. These scams tend to cover a range of different topics, from zero interest down on loans, deals on credit cards and warrants to trying to sell medical devices or insurance. While these scams can seem very real, there are a few key characteristics that can be used to easily identify scams.

1. The scammer will play on your emotions: they may mention a loved one or finances.
2. The scammer will ask for a non-typical method of payment such as wire transfer or gift cards.
3. The scammer will try to instill a sense of urgency: they may tell you to "ACT NOW!" because the offer will be gone tomorrow.
4. The scammer initiated the contact: you were not expecting this call. Stop and think if what they are offering is something you would typically seek out.
5. The scammer will pressure or threaten you into making a purchase.
6. The scammer asks for your Social Security Number, Medicare Number or Bank Account Numbers: Social Security and Medicare will never call you and you should not give out your bank account number.

AARP Iowa offers Fraud Watch Presentations where trained volunteers will come to your group and teach you the most effective ways to spot a scam. Please call 515-697-1019 or email rperl@aarp.org to set up a Fraud Watch Presentation today.