“Phone a friend” isn’t just an option on a game show, #PhoneAFriend is a new campaign, launched by Durham police, to help protect seniors.
Officers want you to talk to seniors in your lives about active scams and ask them to phone a friend whenever they feel unsure about a phone call or visitor to their home.
This comes as phone and door-to-door scams are on the rise.
Police say seniors are often the target of scams because:
•They are usually home during the day
•They have the money and/or info the scammer and fraudsters are looking for
•Are generally more trusting of authority and information presented to them
Typical scams include:
•Scammer acts as a lawyer, police officer or government official and seek owed money.
•Scammers pretend to be helping a loved one and request money to bail them out of jail.
•Scammers attempt to contact those on dating sites and build a relationship then ask for a “loan.”
•Scammers try to get your personal information such as account, PIN and credit card details or SIN information.
•Scammers try to convince you that you have won a lottery and must pay money to release your winnings.
Tips for Protecting Yourself From Scammers:
• Never open the door or invite anyone into your home that you don’t know or recognize. Use your peephole, chain lock or talk through a locked storm door if possible.
• End any conversation when you feel threatened or intimidated. Call someone you trust to discuss.
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