Tips to Protect Your Client from Scammers

In addition to the negative financial effects seniors face as a result of scams, they’re often incredibly ashamed and embarrassed.    Because of that shame and embarrassment, only 25 percent of seniors who have been scammed report the crime to authorities. 

Help scam-proof your clients with these 10 tips:

1.       Shred sensitive documents like bank statements, bills and other financial information.

2.       Point out suspicious mailings to your client and her family.  Show them what to look for, like envelopes mimicking letters from government agencies.

3.       Encourage your client to add her telephone numbers to the Do-Not-Call Registry.

4.       Tell your client not to provide personal information (address, bank account numbers, PINs) to uninitiated callers. 

5.       Make sure charities are registered with appropriate state agencies before she agrees to a donation.

6.       Post a “No Solicitation” notice on your client’s front door.

7.       Educate your client about email/Internet scams and phishing tactics.

8.       If an unknown individual befriends your client, let a family member know.

9.       Look for changes in lifestyle or unusual financial activity.

10.   Find trustworthy people to protect your client when you and her family cannot be with her.

If you suspect someone is scamming your client, contact your franchise office staff immediately.