Many older adults in Brown County have fallen victim to door-to-door scams over the past few years. One scam scenario includes a young man posing as a Water Department employee allowed into an older woman’s home. Once in, he took an undisclosed amount of money while she was removing items from under her kitchen sink, as the man had instructed.
Why do scammers target older adults? Stereotypically, older adults live alone, can be physically vulnerable, and have dementia or a cognitive disorder. Plus, their generation was raised to be nice to strangers. Scammers can pose as government employees, salespeople for companies, even insurance agents following natural disasters.
You may think you will recognize a scam, but in the moment, that can be difficult.
Take these steps when someone knocks on your door:
- Bring your cell phone. Pushing a personal emergency response system button is another alternative.
- Do not open the door immediately. Look through a window to see who is there.
- Check for clothing or a badge with the company name. If you do not see a badge or business card, ask for one.
- Call the company. If the person becomes argumentative, or will not show ID, ask for their supervisor’s name and phone number. Use your cell phone to verify the company sent an employee.
- Think logically. If a company, such as the Water Department or Utility Service, wants to service your home, they will contact you ahead of time by phone or mail.
- Shut the door. If you are unsure, close and lock the door.
- Call for help. First responders would rather you be safe than sorry.
- Report it. Call Crime Stoppers (920) 432-7867 to anonymously share the situation.
Remaining calm and thinking through a situation will go a long way to keeping you safe should a scammer visit your door. Always keep an eye on your neighborhood. Know your neighbors and watch for suspicious activity. If something seems “off” or “wrong,” call the non-emergency number for your local law enforcement agency. Police appreciate these calls so they can prevent something from happening in the first place.
Goal:
Keep scammers from entering your home.
Things to Do:
Ask for identification. Contact the company before letting someone in if you have suspicions.
Shut the door and call for help. Report activity to Crime Stoppers (920) 432-7867 or on their website: www.432stop.com
Have a general awareness of your neighborhood and look out for neighbors.
Follow local law enforcement agencies on social media. Stay up to date on recent crimes and scams.
Caregivers – How can you get involved?
Find a trusted neighbor near your loved one to keep an eye out.
Talk with your loved one about how to answer the door. Role-play a scammer situation.
Put your emergency contact information in his/her cell phone. Encourage your loved one to use (or purchase) a personal emergency response system.
If your loved one has dementia or another cognitive disorder, talk with professionals for specific tips that can help your loved one recognize a scammer.
