There are so many horror stories out there that I have read about time and time again. There are many con artists that prey on Senior citizens because of their inability to protect themselves. So many times, I read in the paper about an elderly victim or theft, rape, and even worse, murder.
Many of these con artists have come to the door and announced themselves as a public utility employee, fire fighter or even a police officer. Some even have very realistic identification.
You will not be acting overly paranoid if you ask the following questions through a closed door.
First ask to see their I.D. Then don't be afraid to ask who their supervisor is and ask if you can have their company's telephone number.
Call their place of employment. Or if there is someone that claims to be a fire fighter or police officer, ask for their name, station number or badge number. Call and ask if there is, in fact, someone that is known by that name who is employed there. Keep the numbers of your utility company, fire department and police department handy and compare them to the ones you have, so they cannot give you some fake number.
Remember, many con artists do not work alone and it is so easy for you to get verification through a number they personally gave you. If something doesn't check out or if you feel they are acting suspiciously, call the police. I have a lot of elderly friends that I look in on and give them the same advice. Be safe, not sorry.
Your utility company, Fire Dept. Or Police Dept. Will not get angry with you. If fact, they will commend you for playing it so safe. Don't become another statistic. Play it safe.
Goldie Blankenship-JR consumer complaintse
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