Protecting vulnerable individuals and voiding scams, fraud, and crime

In today’s world, scams, fraud, and crime are an unfortunate reality, and many individuals—particularly vulnerable populations like those living with Alzheimer’s disease—are targeted. Financial exploitation, robbery, purse snatching, car theft, home repair scams, phone solicitations, and even burglaries are common threats. Although it’s impossible to protect your loved one from every potential danger, there are several steps you can take to reduce risks.

Essential Precautions

Here are some basic measures to safeguard your loved ones:

1. No Solicitation Sign: Display a “No Solicitation” sign at the entrance of your home to deter uninvited salespeople.

2. Do Not Call Registry: Register your phone number with the national “Do Not Call” Registry by calling 1.888.382.1222 to reduce unwanted telemarketing calls.

3. Credit Bureau List Removal: Remove your loved one’s name from credit bureau mailing lists by contacting the Consumer Credit and Reporting Industry at 1.888.567.8688.

4. Direct Marketing Association: Register with the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) at www.dmachoice.org to reduce unwanted mail.

Online Resources for Fraud Prevention

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Learn to recognize scams and report phone fraud to help law enforcement. Visit consumer.ftc.gov.

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Familiarize yourself with common fraud schemes targeting seniors. Visit fbi.gov/scams-safety/fraud/seniors.

Understanding Five Common Types of Fraud

1. Identity Theft

   • How it Happens: Thieves steal Social Security numbers, credit card information, or personal records to access financial accounts.

   • Protection Tips:

     • Avoid carrying your Social Security card.

     • Shred sensitive documents before discarding them.

     • Keep antivirus software up-to-date.

     • Do not click on suspicious pop-up ads or unsolicited email links.

2. Phishing

   • How it Happens: Fraudsters pose as legitimate organizations to extract personal information online.

   • Protection Tips:

     • Avoid responding to unsolicited emails requesting personal information.

     • Verify requests by contacting the organization directly using official contact information.

     • Delete suspicious emails immediately.

3. The Grandparent Scam

   • How it Happens: A scammer pretends to be a grandchild in urgent need of money, often due to an accident or legal trouble.

   • Protection Tips:

     • Confirm the story by asking questions only the real grandchild would know.

     • Verify their whereabouts with other family members.

     • Call the grandchild back using a trusted phone number.

4. Inheritance Scams

   • How it Happens: Scammers impersonate attorneys offering large inheritances from a fictitious deceased client.

   • Protection Tips:

     • Never pay upfront fees to claim an inheritance.

     • Discuss offers with trusted family members or friends.

5. Lottery Scams

   • How it Happens: Scammers notify victims of winning a lottery they never entered, often claiming sponsorship by reputable figures or companies.

   • Protection Tips:

     • Be wary of unsolicited claims of winnings.

     • Trust your instincts; if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

A Closer Look: The Grandparent Scam

This scam preys on the emotional bonds between grandparents and their grandchildren. The scammer’s tactics often include:

• Asking for money.

• Requesting secrecy (“Please don’t tell Mom and Dad!”).

• Creating urgency.

• Directing funds to be wired overseas or placed on prepaid cards.

Tips for Handling the Grandparent Scam:

• Ask specific questions the caller should know, such as the name of a family pet.

• Resist the pressure to act quickly. Take time to think and verify.

• Avoid sharing personal information at the start of the call.

• Confirm the grandchild’s situation with other family members.

• Use a known phone number to contact the grandchild.

If you mistakenly send money, don’t be ashamed to seek help. Inform someone you trust, report the incident to law enforcement, and share your experience to help others avoid similar scams.

Additional Resources for Fraud Prevention

• AARP Fraud Watch Network: www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud

• Internet Crime Complaint Center: www.ic3.gov

• Credit Monitoring Services:

  • Equifax: 800.525.6285

  • Experian: 888.397.3742

  • TransUnion: 800.680.7289

• IRS Fraud Hotline: 1.888.482.6825

• Social Security Administration Fraud Hotline: 800.269.0271

By staying informed and vigilant, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from scams, fraud, and crime.

About the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter

The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) that is available 365 days a year. Specialists and master’s-level clinicians provide confidential support and information to individuals living with dementia, caregivers, families, and the public.

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease or the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, visit alz.org/illinois or call 800-272-3900. Follow the Illinois Chapter on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates.