Tue, March 24, 2026
Mon, March 23, 2026

Verify Requests Directly: Protect Yourself from Financial Scams

Independent Verification is Key: Never act on information received through unsolicited communication. Always contact your financial institution directly using a known, trusted phone number or website to verify any requests. Resist the Urgency: Scammers thrive on creating a sense of panic. Take a deep breath, step away from the situation, and consult with a trusted family member or advisor before making any decisions. Guard Personal Information: No legitimate organization will ever ask for sensitive information - account numbers, Social Security numbers, PINs - over the phone or email. Regular Account Monitoring: Diligently review bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity, no matter how small. Report, Report, Report: Immediately report any suspected scams to your financial institution, the Florida Department of Financial Services (1-877-378-3373), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.

Furthermore, families play a critical role in protecting their elderly loved ones. Open communication, regular check-ins, and assistance with managing finances can help prevent scams and provide a vital safety net. The financial and emotional toll of these scams can be devastating, and proactive prevention is the most effective defense. Experts suggest setting up account alerts and potentially granting a trusted family member limited power of attorney to monitor financial activity.


Read the Full Orlando Sentinel Article at:
[ https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2026/03/23/banks-seniors-scams/ ]