Scam alert time

Wed., July 26, 2006

Matilda Charles King Features Syndicate

Senior fraud is a billion dollar business, and being scammed can happen to anybody — especially those who grew up in a more trusting time. Here are some warning signs that may help prevent a senior you know, whether a friend or relative, from being scammed:

•Unnecessary or shoddy home repair: Seniors are losing their homes because they don’t understand the loan documents they sign or they agree to exorbitant interest rates for work they might not even need. Worse, they sometimes are coerced into agreeing to more work mid-job. If you see repair work going on, inquire.

•Isolation: Scammers try to come between the senior and family or friends, refusing to let him or her talk on the phone, or conducting banking business as a “favor.” If your friend or relative suddenly changes behavior in this way, get to the bottom of it. Who is exerting this kind of influence?

• Caregivers: Those in trusted positions can persuade the senior to make changes to accounts “for convenience.” Check out the caregiver if you have doubts, or at least try to limit the caregiver’s access to money. For example, have groceries or drugs delivered instead of having the caregiver pick them up.

•New romantic interests: Sometimes a romance will turn into a financial commingling of accounts or a change of signatory rights on accounts. Ask questions.

If you suspect that a senior you know is being scammed, speak up. It’s difficult to admit one has been taken advantage of, certainly. There’s no shame in asking for help, though. These scammers are taking advantage of seniors all across the country. One phone call can potentially stop them from hurting anyone else.

For more information go to www.seniorcitizens.com or call the National Fraud Information Center at 1-800-876-7060 for information on avoiding scams targeting seniors. ( www.fraud.org)

Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them in her column whenever possible.

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