Money scams to avoid

Seniors are prime targets for money scams. The main ways people are commonly scammed are roof top solar panel sales, online surveys, phone calls requesting personal information, fake tech support, job offers, and fake investment advice. 

Here are some tell-tale signs you are dealing with a scam artist:

1.       They initiate contact with you. If someone calls you on the phone asking for personal information, be very cautious.

2.       You can’t find a website or phone number online for their company.

3.       They ask for financial information up front or ask you to sign paperwork that is not completely filled in.

4.       They promise you something for nothing. If someone calls you saying that you've won a contest and to come collect the prize, inquire more.  Ask questions about the contest and how you were selected. If you find out it is a scam, call the police.

5.       You see Web ads that ask for your cell phone number. They might try to sneaks charges on to your phone bill.

6.       If someone promises you a job, make sure you Google the company and reviews about the company. If there is little to no information about the company, pass on the offer. Established companies will have some type of web presence.