Senior Citizens’ Safety
During my tenure as Sheriff, I have the good fortune to meet many of Bergen’s Senior Citizens. In this county alone there are more than 125,000 residents over 65. Unfortunately, Senior Citizens are not always treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve. Across the state of New Jersey hundreds of Senior Citizens become the victims of scammers each day. These scams often prey on Seniors because criminals view them as lonely, isolated and having access to money saved for retirement. It is up to us as a community, young and old alike, to watch out for these schemes and protect would be victims.
If you are confronted by someone at your door, remember the following:
If someone claims to represent your town, the state, or a public utility always ask for their identification. If what they provide looks suspicious, close the door and contact the police.
Never pay for goods or services sold door to door with cash.
Never sign anything before you ask a friend or neighbor to look it over for you.
Never let a stranger into your house.
Always try to deal with local contractors and businesses that you know.
If you receive a solicitation in the mail, follow these tips:
Never pay for items which are advertised as “FREE”.
Don’t send money to any charity until you are sure that it is a legitimate and reputable organization.
Never accept items or services which you did not order or request.
If you find something suspicious about a particular offer, contact your local authorities.
For many of the most dangerous Scammers, their weapon of choice is the telephone. Always ask callers to identify themselves and adhere to the following guidelines:
Don’t let anyone make you feel uncomfortable on the phone or speak to you in a way that you would not tolerate in person. Expect respect.
Be skeptical if a person pressures you by telling you that “you must act now”
Never give out personal information or credit card numbers over the phone unless you initiated the call and you know to whom you are speaking.
If you are suspicious simply hang up the phone.
Never ask a potential scammer if they are trustworthy. If they don’t mind stealing your money then they have no problem lying to you.
If you suspect a scam or think you have been a victim of one feel free to contact your local police department or:
The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office- (201) 646-2300
The Bergen County Division of Senior Services – 1-877-222-3737
The AARP – 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277)
Always remember that you are not alone and always trust your instincts. If you are unsure about an offer, a mailing or a phone call, just say “no thanks” until you can ask some one you trust. If an offer is too good to be true, it usually is.