The Ministry of Commerce of Ohio emphasizes financial fraud risks for seniors – Whiz

Zanesville, OH – May is the older American month and older Ohioan Month.

In recognition of the division of financial institutions in Ohio and the Department of Aging, the awareness of the growing number of fraud cases that are directed against seniors and how Ohioan can protect their relatives.

Due to their perceived vulnerability, increased financial stability and greater wealth potential, fraudsters often focus on older adults.

The victims of these frauds often feel shame, fear and lack of familiarity with resources that enable fraudsters to get away and find their next goal.

Robert Rutkowski, the deputy superintendent of the department for financial institutions, says that it is very important to communicate with the seniors in their lives through some of the red flags associated with fraud.

“As sad as it sounds, the first concept is that most people who try to contact them are probably trying to steal them.” Said Rutkowski. “So if you can convince older people in your life not to answer calls, texts or e -mails from people you do not know, this is the first step to help you are financially secure.”

Many of these frauds have become increasingly complex due to the progress in AI technology.

Fraudsters use this to clone the voices of the relatives, the fraudulent calls much more convincing and difficult for the victim to determine whether it is real business.

Rutkowski also warns of romantic fraud and how they can protect themselves.

“As soon as a person experiences this romantic feeling, all bets are eliminated, critical thinking stops,” said Rutkowski. “The thieves use this gate to steal from thousands of dollars from them, it happens every day.”

Some more tips to protect you from potential fraudsters. Check the identity of unknown contacts before exchanging information, resist high-pressure tactics that drive immediate measures, be careful telephone calls, texts, emails and inquiries from door to door and provide personal or financial information that have not been checked.

The aging for aging also has resources to continue to prevent the Ohioans from being the goal of a fraud on their website.