EDMONTON — A warning is being delivered to the elderly and their caregivers from Edmonton police about popular frauds targeting seniors.
The warning about so-called “retirement robbers” is being sent out as part of Fraud Prevention Month.
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Police say among the most common scams against seniors are “grandparent scams” in which a grandparent receives an urgent call from someone pretending to be their grandchild. The caller claims to be in trouble and in urgent need of money, but insists the grandparent not tell the parents.
There are “romance scams” in which a senior enters into an online relationship with a non-existent person. The imposter asks for money to travel to meet, or a loan to help with an emergency.
Another popular fraud happens when a senior is contacted by an alleged legal representative about a large payout or estate. Before the issue can be settled the senior is told they must pay a percentage of the windfall immediately.
READ MORE: Edmonton police and Alberta government launch Fraud Prevention Month
Police say thieves target seniors because the elderly are believed to be trusting, lonely, have technical inexperience, and have age-related health issues or cognitive impairment.
“We call them ‘retirement robbers’ because they are ruthless, and don’t care if they are stealing from seniors who are living on a fixed pension or retirement income,” says Det. Bill Allen, EPS Economic Crimes Section.
“Sometimes entire life savings have been wiped out and lives have been ruined. It can happen to anyone, but sadly, seniors are often targeted because they are more vulnerable.”
READ MORE: Edmonton police warn of series of frauds targeting seniors
Police say these frauds are often underreported because the victims don’t want family members to know they have been scammed.
Police recommend seniors:
- Be extra cautious of unsolicited attempts to be contacted.
- Don’t send money or financial information to anyone without proving it is legitimate.
- Ask for further documentation to verify a person’s identity and legitimacy before you complete a transaction.
- Shred unwanted personal information.
- Review financial statements and check credit report annually.
- Report immediately if a scam artist contacts you or you have fallen victim to fraud.
Contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone if you’re a victim of a fraud. Anonymous information can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
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