How to Keep Ahead of the Con Artists

By KATIE MARTIRE
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Money is one of the largest problems in America, with our ever deteriorating economy, thieves are getting more clever on their tactics on robbing people, especially preying on the elderly.
Arleen James conducted a class at the OSU extension office on Tuesday afternoon to a group of ladies on Frauds and Scams. "Everyone is subject to fraudulent schemes and con games," says James. "Older people in particular seem to be frequently targeted, perhaps because as a group, they tend to be more trusting of others and assume the same sincerity in return."
Elderly people living in rural areas are at a high risk to be hit by con men. James discussed three types of fraud that would target an elderly community. Fraud on the phone, at the door, and through the mail.
Fraudulent phone calls from tele-marketers are more and more common. Some signs that a telephone call is fraudulent could be the operator stressing phrases such as "act now", "you can't afford to miss this", "free gift" or "you've been specially selected." Other tactics are asking you to send money now, the discouraging of you checking their credentials and no written information is offered.
"Stay away from terms like verification, identification and process because this could be a way for someone to obtain a credit card number," said James. "These types of people are professionals that are gifted at what they do."
Also Investment fraud, Pseudo Bank Examiner fraud, Travel Scams, Deceptive Investments and Pyramid Schemes are other types of fraud that are making a huge sense of distrust in Americans, especially the elderly. Con Artists know they are vulnerable and could possibly have a savings account, especially during a disaster.
According to James, the overall best ways to avoid being conned are to follow these basic rules: Realize Nothing is Free; Don't set yourself up to be deceived; Do not be overly sympathetic; Be careful over the phone; Never give out important numbers; Never send cash; Never use a courier service; Beware of high-pressure sales tactics; Do not make quick decisions about buying or investing; Planted People.
"We live in a time where a shredder is necessity, not just an up and down shredder, you need a cross-shredder, they are more expensive but important for the safety of your personal information such as a bank statement," said James.
Take abnormal precautions to keep your personal identification, credit card and banking information private and safe from predators.