The FBI is alerting Florida residents to the increase in financial crime cases involving seniors and indicates a series of signs that should not be ignored, to stay safe from these criminals.
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“Due to the pandemic and we have a lot of seniors in the state, Florida is in second place with these types of scams,” said FBI Special Agent Liz Santamaría.
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Here are some tips on how to protect yourself
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- Do not share personal information through phone calls, because, as Santamaria indicates, legitimate companies do not call to request personal information such as social security number or date of birth.
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- When you recognize a scammer, you cut off all communication with him.
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- Search the internet for information about the person or company with whom you have contact.
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- Resist pressure to respond or do something quickly. Do not believe in emergencies.
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- Be wary of unknown calls, offers, and advertisements.
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- Be careful with updates and downloads on your electronic devices and with whom you do the technical support of the computers.
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If you or a family member is the victim of a scam, you can call 1-800-225-5324 or send a tip here to the FBI website arranged for this purpose.
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Family members are asked to be on the lookout for any new friendships in the elders’ environment. They should also be on the lookout if at some point they don’t want to discuss their financial situation with you.
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