Healthy Living

Six Scams that Prey on the Elderly

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Social Security Scares

Few things are more important to seniors than their social security benefits. That’s why the elderly population is especially vulnerable to scams related to social security. It is important to remember that caller IDs can be manipulated and that you can’t assume the caller is who your phone says they are.

Callers or emailers who are posing as social security employees suggesting there is a problem with the account may ask victims to reveal or verify personal information. That sensitive data can then be used for identity theft or other criminal activity designed to claim your benefits. The Social Security Administration warns people about saying your social security number within earshot of others. When in doubt about suspicious phone calls or emails, it is a good idea to call a trusted social security help line to verify the legitimacy of the activity.