On World Elder Abuse Day officials warn of financial scams targeting seniors
Sunday, June 15 is World Elder Abuse Day, a time officials raise awareness for seniors about potential scams they could come into contact with. According to FBI data, seniors lost $4.8 billion to scammers in 2024.
These financial scams come in many forms.
Romance scams involve the perpetrator pretending to be interested in the victim, in an effort to obtain money. Scammers may inform consumers they have “won” sweepstakes, or lotteries via telephone, email, or mail. They may pretend to be from the IRS or other government agency to collect money. Victims could receive a call from a “family member” claiming to be in immediate financial need. Scammers may even hack into electronic devices with internet pop ups to warn of non-existent computer problems and then pretend to be tech support asking for remote access to their computers.
Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Atlanta Field Office Lisa Fontanette urged seniors to be wary and cautious. Don’t send money to anyone you have never met in person. Don’t send anyone that you meet online your social security number or personal financial information like bank account, routing number, or credit or debit card. If something doesn’t feel right, ask questions and take a step back. If someone’s trying to push you into sending money very quickly or signing unfamiliar documents for them, don’t do it.
“It’s become more common because more people are active on the internet now, and that’s mainly how these people reach out. They contact people through social media. They can also contact them through just telephone calls,” Fontanette said.
To report a suspected case of fraud, call the Atlanta field office at 470-639-2228 or email [email protected].
Crew of fatal US military crash included Alabama father recently deployed
The six U.S. service members who died in the crash of a U.S. military refueling aircraft included an Alabama father who had just been promoted and deployed. The U.S. government released the identities of the deceased service members Saturday.
Alabama poised to drastically overhaul utility regulation. Will it lower electric bills?
The Alabama Senate unanimously voted to expand the public service commission, and create a Secretary of Energy to address rising electricity prices. A bill in the House would go even further, requiring rate case hearings and limiting utility profits.
Musher from Alabama is going for back-to-back Iditarod wins
Riches and paid appearances haven’t followed Jessie Holmes since he won the world’s most famous sled dog race, the Iditarod, last year. He doesn't mind.
Bill would move Alabama to closed primaries
Right now, any Alabama voter can participate in a primary election. Lawmakers in Montgomery took up a bill this week that would change that system.
Auburn football player uses NIL funds to open a community hub in Birmingham
Jourdin Crawford, a freshman defensive lineman at Auburn, used earnings from a Name, Image, and Likeness deal to give back to his hometown.
Ivey commutes death sentence of inmate whose accomplice fired fatal shot
Charles “Sonny” Burton was sentenced to death for the killing of Doug Battle during a 1991 robbery. However, another man shot Battle when Burton had left the building.
