New Scam Alert!

We've had several reports lately of a new scam that targets senior citizens, and this one even hit the

parents of staff in our office!  Here's how it works...

A phone call comes in to a senior, and the caller claims to be a child, grandchild, niece/nephew, or a similar type of relative.  In all of the cases we've heard of, the caller used the actual relative's name.  They then go on to say that they are in jail and need bail money to get out.  The caller then claims that the local police sergeant will explain how to send the money, and hands the phone over to the "sergeant".   This person states that the only way the incarcerated child/grandchild/etc can be released is if a credit card is provided to process the bail charge.

Obviously, this is all a scam that's intended to play on the caring hearts of a grandparent.  And while it may seem transparent when you read this, a senior that's not tech savvy or familiar with these types of ploys is likely to try to help get their child/grandchild/etc out of jail!

How are the scammers getting personal information?  Most likely from social media sites, and it's then a simple process of looking up phone numbers.  Remember, these sites are constantly trying to be hacked and personal information is often leaked!  Please share this story with family members, be cognizant of what you post online, and NEVER give a credit card to a caller!

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!