The truth is, 30 to 40 percent of all the robocalls are scams. This translates into over 10 billion scam robocalls each year that come into the United States. Even non-scam-like robocalls are considered illegal unless the recipient has agreed to be on a certain list. The FTC and FCC are diligently working to combat this growing problem with much difficulty.
Scammers use robocalling techniques because it’s an easy and cheap way to prey on their victims. Often, high-pressure tactics are typically used to scare people into thinking that their homes are going to be taken away from them or even that there is a warrant out for their arrest for tax evasion. If someone falls prey to this, they often feel pressured to giving out personal information, including their date of birth, social security number, full name, address, and the list go on. Sometimes, the scammers have this information even prior to the call, making them the perpetrator seemingly legit. Unfortunately, many of these scam robocalls easily trick unsuspecting people, particularly the elderly population, as being their prime target. Seniors give up billions of dollars each year to these phone scams.
Fortunately, new electronic devices, such as call blockers, can help stop unwanted phone calls—they have been pre-loaded with thousands of the worst offender nuisance robocall numbers. In addition, there is a call blocking system that gives a caregiver the ability to control the numbers that are actually being allowed to ring through. This is a savvy solution for those who suffer from dementia and are unable to detect when there is a scammer on the other end of the line.
According to AARP, one of the most common phone scam occurs when a ‘caller identifies himself as the grandson and says he has been arrested in Mexico and needs $2,400. Every day hundreds of grandparents fall for this scam.’
The Do’s and Dont's of phone scams:
- DON’T be fooled by "Hi, Grandma, it's Billy!" Scammers can easily get relatives names online.
- DO hang up on numbers you do not recognize. Most scammers are in Canada and use disposable cellphones that are non-trackable.
- DO use a magnifier of some sort before picking up the phone if you have difficulty in seeing the number on the screen. (tip: there are phones available that display the larger numbers).
- DON’T EVER engage in a wire transfer. It will never be recovered.
- DO your homework before responding. Write down the number(s) and give it to your caregiver/loved one before you react to anything! Many times, scammers pose as the police, a doctor, or an attorney.
- DO always verify the story with your caregiver.
Sources:
- Alex Quilici, YouMail's CEO, (NBC news editorial piece)
- Theseniorcarenetwork.org
- AARPHealthline.com
© Copyright 2018 The Wright Stuff, Inc. Articles may only be redistributed in its unedited form. Written permission from The Wright Stuff, Inc. must be obtained to reprint or cite the information contained within this article.
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