We need to talk about something very important today: phone scams targeting our seniors. A recent study from the University of Portsmouth revealed that 40% of elderly adults in the UK face phone scams frequently. This is worrying, but don’t worry, we’re here to help you understand and protect yourself.
What's Going On?
Researchers interviewed nearly 2,000 seniors, mostly over 75 years old. They found that two-thirds had experienced at least one fraud attempt in the last six months, and 20% are being harassed by scammers every week.
Types of Scams:
- Phone Scams: These are calls where scammers try to trick you into giving them money or personal information.
- Text Message Scams: Fraudulent messages that aim to deceive you into a scam.
The Impact
These scam attempts are not just annoying; they can be very distressing. One sad story from the study is about a 78-year-old lady who lost nearly £100,000 to scammers shortly after her husband passed away. Thankfully, she got her money back with help from her daughter and the Financial Ombudsman.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Hang Up Quickly: If a call seems suspicious, hang up right away.
- Don't Share Personal Information: Never give out your personal or financial details over the phone unless you made the call.
- Verify and Report: If you’re unsure about a call, hang up and call the organization directly using a number you know is legitimate. Report any scam attempts to local authorities.
Regulator-Validated Practices:
- Contact the Financial Ombudsman: If you've been scammed, they can help you recover your money.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from trusted sources like the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) to keep up with the latest scam trends.
Personal Touch: Remember, these scammers are very crafty, but by staying alert and informed, you can protect yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and reach out for help. Let’s look out for each other and stay scam-free!
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