By Chris Hadley, President & CEO, BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston
As the seasons change and the warm breeze of summer turns into the crisp air of fall, seniors need to remain vigilant against a different kind of change – the rise of seasonal scams. Scammers often adapt their tactics to capitalize on seasonal trends and events, targeting vulnerable populations such as seniors. With the support of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), let’s explore some common scams to watch out for during the summer and fall months, along with tips to stay safe.
- Vacation Rental Scams:
Summer is synonymous with vacations, and scammers take advantage of this by posting fake rental listings online. Seniors excited about planning a getaway may fall victim to these scams, paying upfront for a rental property that doesn’t exist. To avoid this, always research the rental company or property owner, read reviews, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Charity Scams:
During the fall months, charitable giving often increases, especially with events like Giving Tuesday and holiday fundraisers. Scammers exploit this generosity by posing as fake charities, tugging at heartstrings to solicit donations that never reach those in need. Before donating, verify the legitimacy of the charity through trusted sources like the BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance or Charity Navigator.
- Medicare and Healthcare Scams:
Open enrollment for Medicare and healthcare plans typically occurs in the fall, making seniors prime targets for scams related to insurance and healthcare services. Scammers may impersonate Medicare representatives, offering fake services or demanding personal information to “update” records.mid Remember, Medicare officials will never call or visit your home without prior contact, so be cautious of unsolicited calls or visits.
- Home Improvement Scams:
Fall brings with it the need for home maintenance and improvement projects, and scammers are quick to capitalize on this. From driveway paving scams to fraudulent contractors, seniors may find themselves paying for shoddy work or services never rendered. Always research contractors, get multiple quotes, and never pay in full upfront.
- Tech Support Scams:
With the increased reliance on technology for staying connected with loved ones, scammers often pose as tech support agents, claiming to fix non-existent computer issues. They may request remote access to your computer or ask for payment for services you didn’t request. Remember, legitimate tech support companies will never contact you unsolicited, so hang up or ignore any such calls.
Tips to Stay Safe:
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scams and be wary of unsolicited offers or requests for personal information.
- Verify before You Pay: Research companies, charities, or individuals before making any financial transactions or donations.
- Guard Your Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information like Social Security numbers or banking details over the phone or online unless you initiated the contact and trust the recipient.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to seek advice or report suspicious activity to the BBB or local authorities.
By staying informed and vigilant, seniors can protect themselves from falling victim to summer and fall scams. Visit bbb.org anytime, or call (803) 254-2525 • (843) 766-9616
