“Are you available on e-mail for a few minutes? Can’t call! Thanks,”
As soon as I got the email, I knew something wasn’t right.
I thought to myself, “my Grandma doesn’t talk like that, or write like that, for that matter.”
As I researched more, I discovered this is a newly emerging financial scam, involving scammers targeting the elderly through gift card scams and email fraud.
The scammer went on:
“Good to hear from you. I need to get a DoorDash E-Gift Card for a friend of mine who is diagnosed with stage 4 mesothelioma cancer, She lost her only daughter to the disease (COVID-19). It’s her birthday but I can’t do this now. I tried purchasing it online but unfortunately, I got no luck on that. Wondering if you could help me take care of this through Amazon online? and I’ll reimburse you once I get back home.
Please let me know so I can provide you with her email.
Thanks”
Scammers like these prey on the kindness and trust of the elderly, or their family members, tricking them into thinking they are helping a relative in need. In reality, these con artists are after one thing: money.
One common scam involves fraudsters posing as a loved one in need of urgent financial assistance, asking for payment in the form of gift cards. Mine came via a false email from my “Grandma.”
It’s crucial to educate our older loved ones about these scams and to remind them never to send money or gift card codes to anyone without verifying the legitimacy of the request.
Scammers use pressure tactics to prompt their victims to act quickly and believe their fabricated stories. However, a swift investigation, like contacting the supposed company or the family member, can easily expose the scam. Even if the scammer seems convincing, this verification process can unravel their entire scheme.
If someone professes love or presents, lucrative investment schemes or guaranteed wealth after just a few discussions, it's likely a scam. Ensure you have a friend or family member review the messages for any suspicious content.
Although the first two suggestions can help prevent most scam-related fraud, there's still a chance of digital fraud occurring due to data breaches or computer hacks. By routinely reviewing credit reports, bank statements, credit card statements, and monitoring accounts online weekly or biweekly, many other fraudulent activities can be detected early on, reducing the risk of serious issues of financial harm and potentially improving the chances of reimbursement.
It’s hard to see individuals being taken advantage of in this way. Encouraging open communication with family members or trusted individuals can also help seniors avoid falling victim to these scams.
Remember, awareness is key in protecting ourselves and our community from falling victim to these deceitful schemes. Knowledge is power. Be aware of scams (either by phone, email or regular mail). If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.