2011/3/7

 As part of Fraud Prevention Month, the RCMP in New Brunswick is urging senior citizens to familiarize themselves with some of the more common scams and frauds targeting seniors. Criminals often regard the elderly as easy targets, and all seniors should be aware of these crimes and know how to prevent them. In 2010, people approaching retirement age and senior citizens reported the highest dollar losses and made up 50% of all fraud victims in New Brunswick.

Though they may appear friendly, criminals will often target seniors by creating a false sense of urgency. Whether dealing with a telemarketer, a door-to-door salesperson or requests and offers that come in via the mail or the internet, its important to always verify legitimacy before sending or giving money to anyone.

A few tips:

·         Avoid rushing into something involving your money or property and never turn over large sums of cash to anyone as an advance, especially a stranger.

·         Discuss any suspicious financial requests with family members or trusted friends.

·         Be wary of investments promising high-return and low-risk.

·         No legitimate organization will ask you to pay taxes, shipping or administrative fees in order to claim a prize you’ve won.

·         Strangers do not email out of the blue and ask you to help them with found money or large sums that need to be moved to Canada.

·         Ask solicitors for the registered charitable tax number of the charity. Question any discrepancies. Confirm the charity’s registration information through the Canada Revenue Agency by phone at 1-800-267-2384 or on their website.

The RCMP is committed to reducing these incidents against seniors and by working in partnership with the citizens, we can develop safer communities. A variety of helpful tips to help seniors prevent being victimized is available in the Seniors Guidebook to Safety and Security.

RCMP Victim Services in New Brunswick is also available to people who have experienced a crime including fraud. Contact your local detachment for more information.

For more information, please visit our website and the web sites of other organizations taking part in Fraud Prevention Month:

·         Royal Canadian Mounted Police

·         Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

·         Competition Bureau of Canada