Protect yourself from fraud and financial abuse! Be vigilant, be observant. Physical or financial abuse will continue so long as no one knows about it. Listed below are Top 10 Safety Tips to always keep in mind.
- Never give out financial information such as bank account, credit card, social security or Medicare numbers to someone you do not know.
- Medicare and Social Security do not cold-call beneficiaries or make house calls. If someone calls you and says they are from Medicare or Social Security, hang up. Do not give them any information.
- Don’t be pressured into buying anything immediately or because the offer will expire if you don’t act soon. Never be afraid to call someone for assistance. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
- Before making any important financial decisions, make sure you fully understand the purpose and effect of the product you intend to purchase.
- If you do make a purchase, make sure you get everything in writing and require copies of all documentation.
- It is advisable not to wire money to anyone.
- Do not share personal information like your address or phone number on social networking sites like Facebook.
- Do not let strangers into your home without a trusted person, such as a family member or friend, present.
- Delete e-mail messages that ask you to verify your account information. Banks, credit card companies and PayPal will not ask for this.
- If you suspect anything is wrong, or that you or a loved one is being abused, do not hesitate to contact your local law enforcement agency to report your suspicions.
