Five Common Types Of Identity Theft In Tampa That Targets Seniors
People over the age of 60 are among those most targeted for a variety of different types of scams. Sadly, identity theft is one of the most common. It can happen in a variety of ways and can have devastating impacts on the victim and their families. Our Tampa elder care attorney explains five common types of identity theft and how to prevent it.
Identity Theft Targets Older Adults In Tampa
Identity theft is a common type of crime these days, and older adults are among the most frequently targeted victims. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) states that scammers often go over those over the age of 60 as they may be more trusting and less savvy of potential risks. They also frequently hold titles to homes or other properties and have retirement benefits and other funds saved.
The FTC warns that older adults lose close to $3 billion each year due to identity theft. The following are five common ways it happens:
- Medical identity theft: This involves stealing the Social Security card or other documents of older adults to access their Medicaid or insurance policies and fraudulently bill services.
- Tax fraud: One of the most common types of identity theft, particularly during tax season, this involves fraudulently obtaining tax refunds and credits.
- Wire transfer fraud: This is when scammers steal your identity for the purpose of transferring funds from your bank accounts to theirs.
- Phone scams: Older adults often are persuaded via phone calls from scammers to give out their Social Security numbers or other sensitive information that can be used to steal their identity.
- Family or caregiver scams: Unfortunately, older adults are often victimized by some of the people closest to them. Caregivers or even family members may assume their identity in order to make purchases or withdraw funds.
Ways To Protect Yourself Against Tampa Identity Theft
Identity theft is a serious crime under the Florida Statutes and can result in heavy fines and a potential jail sentence. For older adults, the goal is to prevent it from happening. Simple steps to protect yourself include:
- Keep sensitive information private: This includes your Social Security card and account numbers, as well as your birthdate, your mother’s maiden name, and other information used in creating passwords.
- Be cautious in making online purchases: Scammers use fraudulent websites to steal your money and your identity.
- Monitor all accounts closely: Review monthly statements and account balances regularly and report any discrepancies.
- Put estate planning documents in place: Creating a trust, power of attorney, and other Tampa estate documents can help prevent identity theft from happening.
Request A Consultation With Our Tampa Elder Care Attorney
Older adults are frequent targets of identity theft and it can have devastating impacts on their lives. At Strategic Counsel Law Group, L.C., our Tampa elder care attorneys take the actions needed to protect you. To get the caring support and trusted, local legal guidance you need as an older adult, call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.
Sources:
ftc.gov/sites/default/files/documents/public_comments/ftc-seeks-public-input-how-identity-theft-impacts-senior-citizens-project-no.p065411-00009%C2%A0/00009-83187.pdf
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0825/0825.html#:~:text=(4)%20%E2%80%9CElderly%20person%E2%80%9D,the%20person’s%20own%20care%20or
