Protecting yourself against fraud  

Everyone has heard stories about people becoming victims to fraud, rogue traders and ID theft. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to this, particularly if they live in their own homes. If you are receiving home care then your carer can help you with anything you aren’t sure about. 

Rogue traders are becoming an increasing problem. They can turn up on your doorstep unannounced, telling you they’ve noticed some work that needs doing, or that they’re in the area with a special offer. Never accept their offer on the spot. If you do need work done, make sure you get several quotes from reputable companies, with references if possible. Never hand out money before works are completed, and if anyone you don’t know offers to drive you to get money out of the bank, then refuse and close the door. If they persist, then call the police. 

There are an increasing number of scams around which try and get money out of people by phoning, writing or emailing them. There are schemes you can register with to stop sales calls and junk mail, see www.mpsonline.org.uk for further information. After you register your address and phone number with them, any calls or mail you receive should be treated with extreme caution if it is from a company you aren’t expecting to hear from. Some people may try and convince you that you’ve won a prize, a lottery or been left a fortune by a distant relative. If you are in any doubt at all, then speak to a friend, relative, or even your domiciliary care worker who should all be able to give you good advice.  

Some fraudsters are very convincing but if you keep your wits about you and follow the above advice then you shouldn’t have any problems.