Tips for Detecting Scams New ways to fraudulently part you and your money seem to be springing up every day. The Cincinnati Better Business Bureau (BBB) recently reported that a “Wave of Telemarketing Scams Target Seniors” (Feb. 08, 2013), including pushy telemarketing calls from businesses trying to sell personal emergency alarm systems that guard against a long list of dangers, such as break-ins and medical emergencies. It claims that you can get an alarm system worth several hundred dollars installed for free and you’ll only be charged a monthly fee of about $30. Often these are phishing scams that seek credit card numbers and personal information. The Cincinnati BBB offers tips for detecting scams. Be suspicious if the offer:
- Tries to create a sense of panic. In this case, the call alarms seniors by describing a situation where they are incapacitated at home and cannot call for help. Also watch out for calls that push for immediate action.
- Promises something for free . . . that really isn't. Be wary of "free" offers that ask you to pay a handling fee or other charges.
- Implies an endorsement from a well-known organization. In this case, the call claims the alarm system is endorsed by the American Heart Association and the "American Diabetic Association," which is really the American Diabetes Association. Others claim a good Better Business Bureau rating, but this can be checked on BBB.org.
- Contains errors. Just as scam emails often contain misspellings and grammar errors, fraudulent calls refer to organizations, such as the "Diabetic Association."
- Doesn’t have a legitimate mailing address and website.
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