STAY SAFE FROM SCAMS
Every year in San Diego County senior citizens are scammed out of millions of dollars. No one is immune to these evil-doers. Unfortunately, shame often prevents citizens reporting they have been a victim of these crimes.
Please FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO PREVENT SCAMS:
Don’t Answer Unknown Phone Calls – Scammers use fake numbers so it appear to be a local call.
Government agencies or utility companies DO NOT call with threats of fines or jail. This is a common scam in which fraudsters will try to convince you to pay or risk fines or jail time.
Gift cards are for giving, NOT making payment. Scammers obtain money from elderly victims by asking them to purchase gift cards through iTunes, Amazon, Google or from large retail stores.
Choose a caregiver with caution. Have your caregiver submit to a background check even if you use an agency.
Protect mail and use a shredder. Don’t let mail sit in unsecured mailbox. Shred statements and mail with identifying information.
News that you won a foreign lottery or sweepstakes – It’s a scam, DO NOT BELIEVE IT!
Don’t give in to hard-tactic sales pressures for a loan. A reputable business will give you time to make a decision. Don’t let them rush you into a purchase.
Don’t send money to a love interest you have not met in person. If you meet someone online, arrange a safe, public place to meet before becoming too invested in the relationship - - and never send them money.
??? HOW TO REPORT A SCAM IN SAN DIEGO ???
SD County Sheriff’s Department
Non-Emergency line 858-565-5200
E-MAIL report at sdsheriff.net
Website: www.sdsheriff.gov
Or file a police report at your nearest police station
SD Police Department (SDPD)
Non-Emergency line 619-531-2000
Website: www.sandiego.gov click "report a crime"