Over 60s should beware of scams

Thursday, 07 May 2009

The problem of older people becoming victims of the various scams targeted at the over 60s is likely to increase due to the recession, according to Thisismoney.co.uk.

Among scams to watch out for are scratch cards urging recipients to ring an expensive number in order to win a prize and fake lotteries where people are asked for money upfront in order to collect their "prize".

To raise awareness of the escalating problem of scams directed at older people, the Financial Services Authority will be joining forces with newly formed charity Age UK an amalgamation of charities Age Concern and Help the Aged.

Mark Gettinby, director of financial services at Intune which conducted the research said:"The number of older people suffering from scams is worryingly high. Half of older victims choose not to report the crime."

Marilyn Baldwin, 53 launched campaign Think Jessica in memory of her mother, who died at 83 after five years of paying £50,000 to scammers who had tricked her into thinking that she was due to receive a large cash prize. Marilyn is campaigning the government in conjunction with Royal Mail to take proper action to end the scams. She and her family and friend work together with charities to counsel older people who have been unfortunate victims and to spread awareness of the problem.

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