Don't Be Conned

According to the American Association of Retired Persons, older citizens are victims of fraudulent schemes far out of proportion to their population numbers. Keep informed about the latest con schemes in your community by reading the newspaper. Be skeptical about any proposal that sounds too good to be true or has to be kept secret. Do not rush into anything. Check it out with friends, lawyers, police, the Better Business Bureau, or the state or county consumer affairs department.

If you are the victim of fraud, call the police immediately. You may be embarrassed because you were tricked, but your information is vital in catching the con artist and preventing others from being victimized.

Protect Your Money

• Avoid carrying large sums of money. If you must carry a large sum, have a friend accompany you.
• Do not display large amounts of cash.
• Do not sign a check or contract until you are sure it is for a legitimate reason and know the details. Check with a friend, a lawyer, or the police, if in doubt.
• If you receive checks in the mail regularly, arrange for them to be sent directly to the bank.
• Never put your purse or wallet on a counter while you examine merchandise in a store.