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FRAUD PREVENTION
TIPS
Supplied
by BC CEAS (BC Coalition to Eliminate Abuse of Seniors)
In September 2002, the Foundation
was happy to sponsor three Fraud Prevention sessions by BC CEAS for our
residents and their families.
BC CEAS facilitators presented
lively and informative sessions for their audiences. We were so impressed,
we asked for permission to share a few tips. We're sure you will find
them helpful.
Who is the most likely
target of consumer fraud?
Con artists can target anyone.
Many con artists, however, focus on:
• Seniors
• Women
• Widowed persons
• Those living alone
What makes con artists
successful?
Con artists are very good
at what they do. They:
• Appear trustworthy, friendly and helpful.
• Exploit a need (e.g. home maintenance or friendly visiting).
• Play on greed. Getting something for nothing always sounds wonderful.
• Rely on politeness. We were taught that it's rude to hang up or
shut the door when someone is talking to us.
• Appear to be authorities on a subject (e.g. financial matters or
construction).
Watch Out for These Phrases!
• Congratulations! You
have won a free prize!
• This deal is so special; keep it just between you and me.
• I'm an inspector with your bank. You'll help the bank and police
catch a dishonest teller if you withdraw money from your account and give
it to me. I'll give you a receipt and re-deposit it into your account
tonight.
• I was driving by and noticed that your (roof, driveway, fence etc.)
needs repairs.
• All you have to do to claim your prize is to purchase our (water
filtration system or...) for only $395.
• I'm asking for a donation for a worthy cause. I'm only in the neighbourhood
today, so I need your money now.
Questions to ask:
• What do I know about
the company/agency offering the service or prize?
• Did I enter a contest?
• Am I being asked to spend any money?
• Why can't I have a few days to think the offer over?
• What is the charitable registration number of the charity soliciting
donations?
• Why can't I tell anyone about this offer?
• Does this sound too good to be true?
Fraud Prevention Tips
• Know that honest sweepstakes
companies do not ask you to buy anything.
• Never spend money to win a "free" prize.
• Understand that calling a 1-900 telephone number will cost you
money.
• Don't give out your bank account or credit card information to
anyone unless you are the one who has initiated the transaction.
For more information,
or to book a presentation,
call BC CEAS at (604) 437-1940.
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