SPD leaders share tips on deception techniques at entrances
In an effort to combat home security threats and protect the elderly from fraud, AWO Oberhausen is hosting an event titled "Fraud & Tricks at the Front Door." The event, scheduled for Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM, will take place at the AWO meeting center in Schmachtendorf, Germany.
Criminal Inspector Laura Millow from the Oberhausen Police's Department of Criminal Prevention and Victim Protection will be the guest speaker. She will enlighten attendees about the various tricks employed by doorstep fraudsters, such as the Grandparent Scam and impersonating false officials.
The focus of the event is on the topic "Safety in Old Age," with a particular emphasis on recognising and avoiding common fraud patterns. Seniors are advised to be cautious about unsolicited personal or financial requests, verify identities, and not share sensitive information like tax ID numbers, bank account details, or credit card information with strangers or unsolicited callers.
In Grandparent Scams, fraudsters pretend to be grandchildren or relatives in distress, urgently asking for money. To prevent falling victim to such scams, it is crucial to verify the caller’s identity by contacting other family members directly before any transaction. False officials often claim to be government workers or law enforcement demanding immediate payment or access, but legitimate officials do not demand instant payments via gift cards or wire transfers, nor do they ask for remote access to personal computers.
Preventive measures discussed include setting up call blockers, regularly monitoring bank statements with assistance from trusted family members, and having open conversations within families about scams and safe practices. Seniors should be reassured that being targeted is common and not their fault, promoting confidence to report suspicious activities. When in doubt, double-check information and consult with trusted individuals before taking any action.
By attending this event, guests will gain valuable insights into the tactics used by tricksters and learn strategies to protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to these frauds. Awareness of scammers’ pressure tactics, such as creating urgency or fear, on doorstep visits or calls is crucial for prevention.
This community-oriented approach, emphasizing education, verification, and support systems, aims to safeguard seniors in Oberhausen and beyond from doorstep frauds, including the Grandparent Scam and False Officials.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, it's essential for seniors to be vigilant about not only their physical health but also their financial well-being, particularly in light of the growing concerns surrounding home security and scams like the Grandparent Scam and impersonation of false officials, topics that will be addressed in the "Fraud & Tricks at the Front Door" event.
- With an aim to promote general-news literacy, the upcoming "Fraud & Tricks at the Front Door" event, held by AWO Oberhausen, will focus on the critical areas of crime-and-justice, discussing preventive measures and strategies to combat common fraud patterns targeting the elderly, such as the Grandparent Scam and false official impersonations.
