Seniors beware of scammers!

BY FAZAAD BACCHUS

I thought I would write this article about seniors in an effort to protect my readers from scammers who will stop at nothing to take your money. This is becoming a very serious issue. Scammers prey on unsuspecting seniors making them victims, and when a person gets scammed, its an embarrassing thing to have endured, so many times they say nothing. So, let me try to prevent you from falling prey to a scammer by highlighting two of four common scams that are out there.

Computer virus scams
Many seniors are now using computers but at the same time are not always very sophisticated with the use of them. Once in a while a message comes up on the computer saying that your computer has been infected with a virus, your computer freezes and there is a number that you have to call in order to get your computer up and running again. You make the call and a “tech” says that he can fix the problem and asks for permission to come on your computer to fix the problem, so you give him access online. He fixes it and then tells you that you can prevent it by purchasing an antivirus program, which you do. Both actions of yours are mistakes, never let them come on your computer, because you don’t know who they are and you don’t need to buy an antivirus program. Simply shut your computer down by depressing the power button and when you restart it will be fine. If you actually got a virus, take it to an authorised dealer. If you allow a person whom you don’t know to come on your computer, they can steal valuable information like your passwords etc.

CRA calling scam
The first thing you need to know about this, is that CRA does not call anyone to notify them of outstanding payment or arrears. I have received these calls myself where the caller repeats that they are calling from CRA and that they have assessed my previous year’s returns and have come up with either inconsistencies or penalties. Most people get scared at this time, including me the first time I got one of these calls. The caller then goes on to inform you that they are willing to make an offer where you can pay a reduced amount, failing which you will be arrested for defrauding Revenue Canada. So, if in your lifetime there was one return you completed which you were not sure about, you now believe that the CRA has caught you and you are ready to pay up less so that you don’t get into any trouble with the law. You will be instructed where and when to pay this money. If you do this, then you have just fallen for the scammer’s trap. Do not do this.

Next issue we will continue with two more scams that seniors need to be aware of and protect themselves against. Be on your guard!