Egremont — Everyone is susceptible to a scam but Seniors represent a large portion of the population that is targeted. The Councils on Aging (COA) of Egremont and Mount Washington held a “Lunch ‘N Learn” event on November 4 at the Egremont Village Inn to help arm our Seniors with information as to why and how scams can befall us.
COA served a delicious lunch of an autumnal soup, chili, an array of sumptuous sandwiches and desserts. It was a great opportunity for old friends to re-connect and new acquaintances to be made.
Helen Krancer, the emcee from the COA, Egremont, opened the forum. She felt the issue of scamming was prolific and had touched on her life so she wanted to bring this issue to our attention. She introduced John Arthur Miller, an Options Counselor for Elder Services.
Miller works for a nonprofit service that covers Berkshire County and is involved in all aspects of supporting healthy and happy Senior living.
He explained why Seniors are particularity targeted:
– We expect honesty, that ‘s how we grew up.
– We are accessible, at home more than young families.
– We may seek companionship, someone to talk to.
– We are less likely to know our rights, read the fine print.
He went on to tell us about the gruesome and many “Occasion and Opportunity” scams. Grieving and celebratory occasions are targeted and they are innocently announced in local news items. He closed with “Protect yourself against a scam”:
S – be Stingy with your personal information
C – Check your financial information regularly; bank statements, credit card bills, etc.
A – Ask for your credit report intermittently
M – Maintain records — it’s up to you
Egremont Chief Police Brian Shaw came by to add his support and concern about scamming. He was so informative about the different approaches ” The Scammers” take. They want to scare us, intimidate us or prey upon our sympathy. Be strong, don’t answer questions and after what you feel is a Scam, call the Egremont Police. All present responded with, “I didn’t even think to call you!” Officer Shaw responded with, “We keep track of this and realize how our community may be vulnerable and we communicate with other communities to see any patterns.”
Participants shared their stories but especially showed examples of mail fraud they had received. We were amazed at how convincing, official and intimidating they are. NOTE: No Federal Agency will show up at your door for immediate monies without written communication!
The Council on Aging will continue to educate everyone on this subject with a follow up in a few months. Our next event will take a light-hearted turn to “LUNCH ‘N MOVIE.” Join us for lunch and the movie, “Waking Ned Devine” — HILARIOUS!!!, Wednesday, December 2nd at 12 noon.
