Useful Information for Retirees & Senior Citizens . . .
KEEP your e-mail safe! Know how scammers are trying to take advantage of you.
Phishing
Phishing schemes often use spoofing techniques to lure you in and get you to take the bait. These scams are designed to trick you into giving information to criminals that they shouldn't have access to.
In a phishing scam, you might receive an email that appears to be from a legitimate business and is asking you to update or verify your personal information by replying to the email or visiting a website. The web address might look like the one you've used before. The email may be convincing enough to get you to take the action requested.
But once you click on that link, you're sent to a spoofed website that might look nearly identical to the real thing -- like your ank or credit card site -- and asked to enter sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, banking PINs, etc. These fake websites are used solely to steal your information.
Phishing has evolved and now has several variations that use similar techniques:
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Vishing scams happen over the phone, voice email, or VOLP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) calls.
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Smishing scams happen through SMS (text) messages.
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Phaming scams happen when malicious code is installed on your computer to redirect you to fake websites.
Submitted by MRSPA Consumer Education Committee -- Reprinted from MRSPA -- Information from FBI.gov
HEART members might find this guide to be beneficial.
Birch Gold Group Scam Protection Resource Guide
You can access it at: https://www.birchgold.com/scam-protection-resource-guide/
Fall Prevention
"Did you know that 1 in 4 Americans aged 65+ falls every year? Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls are costly—in dollars and in quality of life. However, falling is not an inevitable part of aging. Through practical lifestyle adjustments, evidence-based programs, and community partnerships, the number of falls among seniors can be reduced substantially." (National Council on Aging)
Visit this website to learn about home modifications that will help prevent falls.
Visit this website to learn about strategies for organizing your home for safety.
How may I help you?
Howard County Office on Aging and Independence
Click on the office name above to reach the website. Here is a list of some of the programs and services provided by this office:
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50+ Centers
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Medicare Counseling
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Caregiver Program
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Loan Closet
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Social Day Programs
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Lunch programs at Senior Centers or at home
Another resource is the Maryland Access Point, or MAP, reachable at 410-313-1234. This program provides guidance with assistance and benefits, referrals to programs and services, and planning for the future. The link to the website is here.