Keeping Seniors’ Personal Information Safe From Scams

If one had a phone in the “good old days,” all we had to worry about was someone listening to our conversation on the party line. Or, waiting if some one was using their phone, to hang up so we could call out. Now, so many times when the phone rings, it might be a scam call, some one trying their tricks.

Recently, Autumn Holland, Andrew Morris and Jay Cantrell, from Washington County Detention Center, took time to visit the Lincoln Senior Center, and explain what to do, or not do, in these situations.

Before picking up the phone, check the incoming number. Don’t answer if it is an 800 number, or any out of area number that you don’t know. If you do answer, never answer any question with a “yes,” as they might have a recording of a question you would otherwise answer with a no.

Never fall for those who ask for a donation, regardless of the promised gift, and never give out any of your personal information, such as Social Security numbers, insurance or other information.

Remember, Social Security, insurance and most other institutions correspond by mail, not by phone.

The April Reader’s Digest gives in detail, how to avoid these scams.

Then, there is Identity Theft, really serious, as it can, before you know it, ruin your finances, credit and reputation, and it takes time and money to correct.

To help prevent, shred all papers that show personal, financial or medical information.

Protect your wallet, back pack and mail from the theft of this information.

If you need help, the Detention Center has a wealth of literature, and you can call for this help.

Happy birthday to Nathan Cochran, Bill Griscom, Phyllis Reed, Ken Power, Janet Harper, Lynnwood Holloway, Dale Bailey, Emily Pitts, Don Mounce.

Happy anniversary to Eugene and Elaine Olszewski, David and Sherry Mark.

Happy years, all!