SCAMS BULLETIN Host Jay White is a volunteer attorney who provides free legal assistance for low income seniors in San Mateo County, California.

April 7, 2020

SCAMMER ERRAND RUNNERS

Older adults may be hard hit by the coronavirus – and scammers prey on that. Scammers are offering help with errands, and running off with the money.

If you or someone you know must stay at home and needs help with errands, you’ll want to be alert about this latest scam.

If you’re an older adult or a caregiver for one, you may need help picking up groceries, prescriptions, and other necessary supplies. If someone you don’t know offers to help, be wary. Some scammers offer to buy supplies but never come back with the goods or the money. It’s usually safer to find a trusted friend or neighbor or arrange a delivery with a well-known company.

If you’re ordering supplies online, know who you’re buying from. Phony online sellers may claim to have in-demand products, like cleaning, household, and medical supplies when, in fact, they don’t. Use an established delivery service, or order directly from the store. Many grocery stores and pharmacies are offering contactless delivery.

If you need additional help for yourself or a loved one, the Eldercare Locator, a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging, can connect you to services for older adults and their families. That number is 1-800-677-1116.

Attribution: US Federal Trade Commission.