Hi, This Is John…

July 02, 2013

My phone rang last Friday night just as I was heading out for the evening.  “Hi, this is John.  I’m calling to confirm a delivery.” I started to talk to John since his recorded voice had me fooled. John went on to say that my medical alert device was waiting to be shipped and to press 1 to verify my address.  Since I hadn’t ordered any type of medical equipment, I quickly hung up. 

But what if my stepson had answered and provided the personal information that the scammer was hoping to get?  Or worse, could a senior citizen be fooled by this con?  I am not alone in receiving this type of call, according to a recent article in USA Today, which points out that these calls appear to target the elderly, disabled and diabetic.  I don’t fit this profile so I’m not sure why I was selected as a potential mark.

To avoid getting stuck with a “free” medical alert device that costs you a significant shipping and handling charge or even worse, having the call lead to identity theft,  watch for these warning signs from the Better Business  Bureau:

· “Free” Offers – Be wary of “free” offers that require you to pay a handling charge or other fees. In the case of medical alert systems, ask if there are additional monthly charges. If the telemarketer says a friend or family member bought the unit, ask for the name of the person and verify with them before agreeing to anything.

· Scare Tactics – Being trapped in your own home with no way to call for help can be a scary situation for anyone but for many seniors, it can be a realistic scenario. Nonetheless, don’t fall for scare tactics.

· Calls for Immediate Action – Listen for language like “This offer is good for today only!”

· Reluctance to Answer Questions Directly, Provide Contact Info, or Complete Offer Details – Tell the caller you will not provide any information or make any decisions until you get all details in writing.

So if John calls you, you can file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) at: https://esupport.fcc.gov/ccmsforms/form1088.action?form_type=1088C.