Protect Your Loved Ones from Scammers

Background

Scams and fraud have become increasingly sophisticated, posing a significant threat to vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Recent studies reveal a disturbing rise in the number of elderly individuals being targeted by fraudsters, often resulting in devastating financial and emotional consequences. As loved ones, it is our responsibility to help safeguard our elderly family members from these malicious schemes.

Key Statistics

• Fraud Reports: Action Fraud reported that in the year ending March 2023, over 96,000 reports of fraud targeting individuals aged 60 and above were filed. This marks a significant increase from previous years.
• Financial Impact: The financial losses reported by elderly victims of fraud totalled over £1.2 billion in the same period.
• Emotional Impact: According to Age UK, 53% of individuals aged 65 and over believe they have been targeted by fraudsters, leading to not only financial loss but also severe emotional distress and anxiety.

If your loved one has been the victim of a scam and lost money, contact Resolved Claims Limited on 0800 368 5110 today or email us at info@resolvedclaims.co.uk. Alternatively, complete our Online Contact Form and we will get in touch to understand the details of the case. We are a long-established FCA Regulated Company committed to helping clients under a No Win, No Fee arrangement successfully recover funds lost to fraud or scams. For more detailed information, see our article on Lost Money to A Scammer– Why Use Resolved Claims to Help Get Your Money Back?

Common Scams and Frauds Targeting the Elderly and Vulnerable

Phishing Scams

• Description: Scammers send fraudulent emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate sources (banks, government agencies, etc.) to steal personal information.
• How to Avoid:
  • Teach them to verify the sender's email address.
  • Encourage them not to click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
  • Use spam filters and keep their email account secure with strong passwords.

Telemarketing Scams

• Description: Scammers call and persuade the elderly to send money or share personal information by pretending to be legitimate businesses or charities.
• How to Avoid:
  • Register their phone number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce unsolicited calls.
  • Advise them to never share personal information over the phone.
  • Encourage them to hang up and verify the caller's identity through official channels.

Imposter Scams

• Description: Scammers impersonate relatives, friends, or officials (like bank officials or police) to trick the elderly into sending money or providing personal information.
• How to Avoid:
  • Encourage them to verify the caller’s identity by calling back using a known number.
  • Set up a family code word for emergencies to verify identity.
  • Remind them not to rush into decisions based on urgent or emotional appeals.

Tech Support Scams

• Description: Scammers claim to be tech support agents from well-known companies and trick victims into giving access to their computers or paying for unnecessary services.
• How to Avoid:
  • Educate them about common tech support scam tactics.
  • Encourage them to contact the official support channels of their software or hardware providers.
  • Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software.

Romance Scams

• Description: Scammers create fake profiles on dating sites or social media to build relationships and eventually trick victims into sending money.
• How to Avoid:
  • Advise them to be cautious about sharing personal details with online acquaintances.
  • Warn them about red flags such as requests for money or inconsistent stories.
  • Encourage them to speak with family or friends about new online relationships.

Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams

• Description: Scammers inform victims that they have won a large prize but need to pay fees or taxes upfront to claim it.
• How to Avoid:
  • Explain that legitimate lotteries do not require payment to claim a prize.
  • Encourage them to avoid responding to such notifications and report them.

Investment Scams

• Description: Scammers offer bogus investment opportunities promising high returns with little risk.
• How to Avoid:
  • Educate them about common investment scams and the importance of due diligence. See our information on Understanding Investment Fraud.
  • Recommend consulting with a trusted financial advisor before making any investments.
  • Encourage them to be wary of unsolicited investment offers.

Home Repair Scams

• Description: Scammers offer home repair services, demand payment upfront, and either do substandard work or disappear.
• How to Avoid:
  • Advise them to get multiple quotes and check references before hiring a contractor.
  • Encourage them to avoid paying the full amount upfront.
  • Suggest using reputable companies and seeking recommendations from trusted sources.

Conclusion

Protecting your loved ones from scammers requires vigilance, education, and proactive measures. By being aware of common scams and knowing how to avoid them, you can help to ensure the safety and well-being of your elderly family members.

If your loved one has fallen victim to a scam, it is crucial to act quickly. Contact Resolved Claims Limited on 0800 368 5110 or email us at info@resolvedclaims.co.uk. Alternatively, complete our Online Contact Form and we will get in touch to understand the details of the case.

Stay informed, stay vigilant, and together, we can help to protect our loved ones from the dangers of fraud and scams. See our useful checklist Protecting Loved Ones from Scams Quick Checklist and Fraud Recovery Tips.