Free 100 Safety Tips for Seniors

FINANCIAL SENIOR SAFETY

 

Although senior citizens make up around 14% or the total population, they are disproportionately targeted for fraud. Presently, it is estimated that seniors account for around a third of all fraud victims. It is therefore important to ensure that our elderly citizens are protected from frauds, scams and other forms of financial exploitation.

Follow these critical senior safety tips to avoid becoming a victim of financial fraud:

90. Keep all your valuable possessions: jewelry, papers and securities, cash or art objects in a safety deposit box at the bank. Make sure to keep a list of all your valuables inside the deposit box as well.

91. Be aware that seniors are easy targets for all types of scam artists and con men. Familiarize yourself with types of scams and financial abuse, and learn the warning signs.

92. Use direct deposit for any checks, incoming payments, disability or Social Security benefits.

93. Do not give out any financial information about yourself to strangers or even neighbors.

94. Never give out account information or credit card information in response to an unsolicited phone-call or message.

95. Check your bank accounts regularly and watch out for any suspicious transaction or any activity that you are not familiar with.

96. Review your credit reports on a regular basis for any errors or accounts that you do not recognize.

97. Keep a list of all your accounts and financial institutions with a trusted family member, in case an emergency occurs.

98. Don’t apply or agree to any loans or mortgages without consulting with a specialist or at the very least, a family member or trusted friend.

99. Don’t let anyone force you or pressure you to purchase any product, enroll in any services or make any donations.

100. Hang up the phone on telemarketers or anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable.