AARP Massachusetts Monthly Fraud Watch Network update for June 2018

Did you know that someone’s identity gets stolen every two seconds?  The AARP Fraud Watch Network provides you with tips and resources to help you spot and avoid identity theft and fraud so you can protect yourself and your family.  Our watchdog alerts will keep you up to date on con artists’ latest tricks.  It’s free of charge for everyone:  AARP members, non-members, and people of all ages.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network is:

• An Educator: Get real-time alerts about the latest scams, tips on how to spot them, and the inside scoop on how con artists think so you can outsmart them before they strike.

• A Watchdog:  Our nationwide scam tracking map gives you access to a network of people who've spotted scams and the opportunity to pass along your own experiences, so together we can beat con artists at their own game.
• A Resource:  Get connected to a real live person trained in how to avoid fraud and advise you if you or a loved one has been scammed by calling our fraud hotline or attending a forum in your community.
• Free for Everyone:  Anyone, of any age, can access our resources at no cost.

Be a fraud fighter!  If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Contact local law enforcement or the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or 1-877-908-3360 to report a scam or for more information on scam and fraud prevention.

SCAM ALE RT #1:

Elder Abuse can happen anywhere, anytime. It’s estimated that older adults lose about $3 billion annually due to financial exploitation and abuse. The effects go beyond the checkbook; it can cause emotional distress, deterioration of physical health, and loss of independence. Only about 1 out of 14 cases are actually reported to authorities. If you suspect someone is being abused, please report it. June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.  Seniors, family members and senior providers are encouraged to contact their local AARP State Office for free scam and fraud prevention resources or for more information.

SCAM ALERT #2:

Concerts are especially popular during summer months. Scammers have found a way to use this to their advantage. Make sure to always buy your tickets from a reputable source!  Be on the lookout for any ticket sellers that tell a sad story about why they can’t use their tickets, can only accept cash, want you to wire the money or transfer through a prepaid account, or who pressure you to act quickly.  Report any suspicious sellers to local law enforcement.

 

 

SCAM ALERT #3:

Summer isn’t all about spending days at the beach or traveling.  Finding employment has become a top priority for younger adults and temporary job seekers. However, discerning whether or not the job is legitimate has become a huge problem. Watch out for employers who require fees for training and for ordering a background check. A genuine employer would NEVER ask for someone to pay for this. Make sure the company is legitimate before sharing any personal information or sending them any money.

 

SCAM ALERT #4:

Reports are coming in about a Publisher’s Clearing House (PCH) scam, so please be aware and share this important information.  The scammer will call you, claiming to be an employee of PCH and will direct you to a “claims agent.”  This person will inform you that you have won millions of dollars, but that you have to pay a tax or collector’s fee in order to receive your prize.  Please note: PCH will never ask you to pay a fee to collect a prize. No legitimate prize promoter ever charges a fee when you win. In addition, PCH never calls ahead to tell the winner they have won a prize. Please check the PCH fraud protection page for more information about this and other scams: https://info.pch.com/fraud-protection-2/.