The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance’s (TDCI) Consumer Affairs Division is warning senior adults to be diligent in avoiding scams. Tennesseans are encouraged to take time during holiday visits to ensure senior relatives and neighbors are equipped to protect themselves against identity fraud. “Many older adults fall prey to identity theft every year,” says TDCI Deputy Commissioner Bill Giannini. “It’s important to discuss with them the fraudulent tactics that are being used and communicate how they can avoid becoming a victim.”
Older adults are often targets of financial exploitation by caregivers, scam artists, financial advisers, home repair contractors, or fiduciaries (such as agents under power of attorney and guardians), and others.
Share these essential identity theft prevention tips with the seniors you know:
Never buy from a stranger who calls or visits unannounced.
Shred all paperwork containing identifying information, healthcare information, banking information, or passwords.
Monitor bank and credit card statements.
Monitor your credit report.
Use direct deposit for benefit checks to prevent checks from being stolen.
Never give your credit card, banking, Social Security number, Medicare, or other personal information over the phone, unless you initiated the call.
