Bucks County authorities spoke to Bristol Township seniors last week to combat the surge in scams targeting local residents and seniors.
Advertisements
Sheriff Fred Harran shared a personal ordeal of his credit card being compromised multiple times due to information. He said thieves can acquire personal information from social media.
The county’s sheriff said he only uses LinkedIn and is off other social media.
Criminals are increasingly tech-savvy, and it’s crucial we all remain vigilant about our digital footprints, Harran cautioned.
Advertisements
Echoing the sheriff’s concerns, Michael Bannon, director of the Bucks County Office of Consumer Protection, advised avoiding debit cards for transactions. Credit cards are safer as they don’t provide direct access to your bank account, but users should be wise to avoid debt.
“If you’re able to use a credit card and use it so it doesn’t accumulate debt, do that. A lot of money is taken from accounts using debit cards,” he said.
Advertisements
District Attorney Jennifer Schorn highlighted the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of any fraudulent activities. She added that there’s no shame in falling victim to crimes and reporting them helps law enforcement track down the perpetrators, even if they’re operating from abroad.
The district attorney also shed light on the growing problems from mailbox theft and check washing, where criminals manipulate checks to reflect higher amounts.
Schorn explained that many of the thieves use a big stick with a glue on it to grab mail out of boxes. They then sort through it looking for checks.
Advertisements
A local senior recounted am incident where a $25 birthday check was nearly cashed for thousands of dollars. The crooks were thwarted by prompt postal and bank intervention. Schorn recommends using gel pens for checks to deter such alterations.
Emphasizing the need for stricter penalties for scammers, especially those preying on seniors, Schorn argued that severe consequences would deter the crimes and encourage lower-level offenders to cooperate with law enforcement.
Advertisements
Kathy Bennett, director of the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging, announced the launch of a centralized website to educate the public about scams. She said law enforcement, government, and nonprofits are working together to keep seniors safe.
NOVA (Network of Victim Assistance) Victim Advocate Liam Crowley discussed the vital role of victims making police reports and seeking assistance through the nonprofit’s elder abuse victim advocacy. He explained that while victim compensation in Pennsylvania can offer some financial relief, it does not fully compensate for losses.
Advertisements
Crowley also highlighted two prevalent scams in the area: one involving a computer virus scam directing victims to provide bank access under the guise of tech support, and another through deceitful text messages from entities like the IRS or Walmart, leading to identity theft or financial losses. He noted that the IRS will sent mail to a person and not text them.
In Bucks County, Crowley said he’s seen victims lose as much as $250,000.
Advertisements
“When in doubt, check it out,” he advised.
Dakota Levy, a senior legal advocate at the nonprofit Senior Law Center, explained that the center offers free representation for those 60 and above who have been victims of scams or elder abuse. Common scams play on emotions, and seniors should be cautious of unsolicited calls and pressure to act immediately.
For more information on senior scams and help if you’ve been targeted, visit BucksCounty.gov.
Advertisements
Report a correction via email | Editorial standards and policies
