According to FBI Internet Crime Complain Center data, in 2022 there were 88,262 fraud complaints from people 60 and older, resulting in $3.1 billion in losses.
Responding to a spike in reported scams targeting local seniors, Solano County's Older and Disabled Adult Services and Adult Protective Services have launched the Solano Senior Fraud Prevention Center, SolanoScamCenter.org, pairing it with a public education campaign.
The effort aims to prevent financial exploitation by scammers and less-than-honest family members while informing residents of resources available to those affected by such crimes, Matthew Davis, the public information officer for Solano County, wrote in a press statement issued Tuesday.
"Scammers are everywhere — including Solano County — and they're more clever than ever," said Mike Watson, social services manager for APS.
"With the advent of new technologies, sophisticated fraudsters are able and willing to do nearly anything for a quick buck — fraudsters can come from down the street or across the globe," he added in the prepared statement. "The new center equips the community with the knowledge and tools it needs to stop these bad actors."
Available via a one-stop resource guide, SolanoCares.org, the Solano Senior Fraud Prevention Center offers "vital information and tools to empower seniors and their caregivers" to identify, stop and report fraud, noted Davis.
The website also shares five essential tips to prevent scams:
* Always double-check the source of "government" communications;
* Be vigilant and on the watch for fake social media identities and "sweetheart scams";
* Bring skepticism to every prize or investment offer;
* Be wary of "urgent" notices that claim your accounts or computer have been "compromised" without providing proof;
* Monitor your finances often and protect your power of attorney (the authority to act for another person in specified or all legal or financial matters).
The website also provides contact information and reporting strategies to connect with regulatory agencies, local law enforcement and APS.
"ODAS' dedicated team is prepared to assist Solano seniors," Watson added. "If you're a victim of a scam and don't know where to turn, please give the APS team a call. We can help you file a report, contact law enforcement and learn to protect your finances. There's no shame in fighting back."
For more information, visit SolanoScamCenter.org or contact the ODAS, telephone (707) 784-8259.
Reports to APS can be filed at reporttoaps.org or by calling (707) 784-8259 during regular business hours or (800) 850-0012 after hours.
© 2024 The Reporter, Vacaville, Calif. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
