At a recent presentation on "Elder Fraud" at the Transylvania County Library, Pisgah Legal Services highlighted just how serious this issue has become. Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, often targeting seniors who might be more trusting or less tech-savvy. In communities like Brevard, where many residents are retirees, this is a growing concern. Over one-third of the town’s population is aged 60 or older, making them prime targets for these schemes.
How Scammers Operate
Casey Steen from Pisgah Legal Services explained that scammers often use psychological tactics to trick seniors into handing over their hard-earned money. They might pretend to be a bank representative, a lawyer, or even a family member in distress. One particularly cruel scam involves fake sweepstakes, where “winners” are asked to pay fees upfront to claim their prize—money that, of course, never comes.
Another alarming scam is the grandparent scam, where fraudsters use artificial intelligence to mimic the voice of a loved one, asking for bail money or help with legal fees. These scams work fast, preying on a senior’s instinct to help their family.
Real-Life Stories
In one heartbreaking case, a local grandmother was tricked into wiring money to help her “arrested” grandson in California. She didn’t realize it was a scam until after she sent the money. The irony? Her grandson had never been to California.
How to Protect Yourself
Steen shared some key tips to help seniors protect themselves from scams:
- Be Skeptical: If you get an unexpected call or email asking for money, pause and think. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prevent you from thinking clearly.
- Verify the Story: If someone claims to be a relative in trouble, hang up and call that person directly using the number you already have. Don’t rely on the information given by the caller.
- Protect Your Information: Be cautious about what you share online, especially on social media. Scammers can use this information to guess your passwords or create a convincing story.
- Watch Out for Phishing Scams: If you get an email that seems suspicious, don’t click on any links. Instead, contact the company directly using a trusted phone number.
- Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, making it harder for scammers to gain access.
What To Do If You’re Targeted
If you think you’ve been scammed, don’t panic. Contact your bank immediately to report any suspicious activity. The Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office is also a great resource—they even offer a free app with anti-scam links. And if you need further assistance, you can reach out to the Consumer Protection Division of the North Carolina Attorney General’s office or the AARP Fraud Watch Network.
Final Thoughts
Marlene Cronin’s experience is a powerful reminder to always be on guard. Scammers are clever, but with a little knowledge and caution, you can protect yourself from becoming their next victim. As Marlene wisely puts it, “If it’s too good to be true, it is.”
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