By Julie Randolph, Information and Access Care Coordination Manager
Do not fall victim to a phone scam. Be proactive! Be part of the solution!
Register your phone number online with the DONOTCALL.gov registry or by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you wish to register. This will stop sales calls but not all calls.
A second layer of protection is to use the built-in features on your cell phone to block callers. The manufacturer of your cell phone can provide assistance. You may also consider downloading a Call Blocking app from the App Store on your cell phone. Another option is to purchase a Call Blocking device for your home phone. Devices are available wherever electronics are sold. Did you also know that you can purchase a phone with built-in enhancements and protections from companies such as RAZ Mobility, teleCALM, and Jitterbug?
Caller IDs can be faked. Do not trust that the caller is who they claim to be just because the caller ID identifies them as coming from that source. Instead, we advise you to HANG UP. Google the company and make a call directly and inquire about the legitimacy of the call placed to you.
If you do not have access to a google search, call a trusted friend, and request assistance.
REPORT SCAM CALLS to the Federal Trade Commission and Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General by phone at 1-888-382-1222 or 1-800-269-0271, or make a report online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, or www.ssa.gov/scam.
We can make a difference if we all do our part. Phone scams are not an irritation to ignore. Phone scams are illegal attempts to extort. Be aware. Never release personal information to someone you do not know. Report scams every time they occur.
Senior Services is here for you. Knowledge is power–check out our Tech Class offerings on page 3! If you have further questions, call 989-633-3700.
