As colder weather approaches, scammers may try to take advantage of seniors by offering deals that sound too good to be true or creating fear and urgency. At Marion County Senior Citizens, Inc., we want our seniors and their families to stay safe—not just from the cold, but from those looking to steal their hard-earned money!
⚠️ HERE ARE SOME WINTER SCAMS TO WATCH OUT FOR:
🔥 1. Fake Utility Company Calls
Someone calls claiming your electric, gas, or water bill is overdue and threatens to shut off your service unless you pay immediately. They may ask for gift cards, cryptocurrency, or a money transfer.
🏠 2. Home Repair Scams
Someone knocks on your door offering cheap furnace repairs, roof repairs, frozen pipe repairs, or other winter services. They demand payment upfront but may never complete the work—or may do a poor job.
❄️ 3. Snow Removal Scams
Someone offers to shovel your driveway or clear your sidewalks for a low price, demands payment in advance, and disappears without doing the work.
💰 4. Fake Heating Assistance Programs
Scammers may pretend to offer heating bill assistance, energy rebates, or government benefits. They may ask for your Social Security number, banking information, or an upfront fee to receive assistance.
⚡ 5. Power Outage Scams
After a winter storm, scammers may pose as your utility company and promise to restore your electricity faster or provide a refund. They may send fake links or ask for personal or financial information.
❤️ 6. Fake Charity Requests
You may receive calls, texts, emails, or visits from people claiming to collect money for families affected by winter storms or people in need. Always verify a charity before donating.
🛑 HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF?
✅ Never feel pressured to make an immediate payment.
✅ Never pay a bill or contractor with gift cards or cryptocurrency.
✅ Don’t give out your Social Security number, banking information, or passwords to unexpected callers or visitors.
✅ Verify utility bills and assistance programs by contacting the organization directly using a trusted phone number.
✅ Get written estimates and check references before hiring someone for home repairs or snow removal.
✅ Talk with a trusted family member or friend before making an unfamiliar payment.
📢 REMEMBER: If someone threatens you, pressures you to act immediately, or tells you to keep a payment secret, STOP! Take time to verify the information.
If you suspect you’ve encountered a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at www.ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call 1-877-382-4357.
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Stay warm, stay safe, and don’t let scammers steal your peace of mind this winter!