We like to think that Tennesseans are more decent and ethical than people in other corners of the world, but the fact remains that some strangers seek to exploit senior citizens, even in Morristown.
The bad guys intentionally target seniors because they believe hurting them comes with a low risk of consequence. Don’t allow yourself to become their prey.
The National Council on Aging cites numerous kinds of scams seniors need to watch for. Some cons are pretty typical while others are downright nefarious…
Prescription Drug Fraud – If you seek cheaper medicines online, you risk not only being taken for your money but also put in danger. If someone sends you pills that do not improve some condition, this puts your life potentially at risk. Without a paper trail to guarantee accountability, you could find yourself exploited.
Health Insurance Fraud – Every U.S. citizen or permanent resident over age 65 qualifies for Medicare, so this money unfortunately makes seniors ripe for exploiting. Be wary of perpetrators posing as a Medicare representative to convince you to surrender your personal information so they can bill Medicare and pocket the money.
Funeral Scams – In the lowest of the low, scammers may read obituaries and call or attend the funeral service of a complete stranger to take advantage of the grieving widow or widower. They strike by claiming the deceased loved one falsely owed them money.
Telemarketing Fraud – Scam artists take advantage of good people by setting up fake charities after natural disasters or calling to implore the senior to send money for a relative who is in the hospital and needs help.
Internet Scams – Watch out for pop-up browser windows claiming to link to virus-scanning software (which actually install viruses instead of protecting your PC) or legitimate-looking emails that are actually fake messages from real organizations you’d normally trust.
Too-Good-To-Be-True Scams – Scammers claim you have won a lottery or sweepstakes of some kind and need to make some sort of payment to unlock the supposed prize. They may even send you a check that you can deposit into your bank account, knowing that while it shows up in their account immediately, it will take a few days before the (fake) check is rejected. Don’t fall for it.
These are just a few of the cons shady people use to harm Morristown’s seniors. Be savvy and don’t become a victim.