MICHIGAN CITY – Police in Michigan City are warning us of a new scam targeting seniors.
Here is a news release detailing the scam from the city’s police department:
I’VE FALLEN AND I CAN’T GET UP!
Who does not recognize this famous T.V. Commercial from the late 80’s? Well a new scam has surfaced targeting seniors across the country. This scam is done through “Robocalls” to your home where the recordings sound like a real person claiming that either “someone has purchased a Life Alert system for you,” or that “You qualify for a free Life Alert. Other calls may say they are calling from a shipping department to confirm a free order or to send upgraded Life Alert equipment. JUST PRESS #1 . All of these are telemarketing scammers trying to mislead and defraud consumers by using the “LIFE ALERT” trademarked name so they can get your address, credit card number and bank information to charge you.
The sales pitch is convincing, but it is a LIE!
Unfortunately a lot of people have taken the bait. Once you fall for the pitch and talk to a live salesperson they attempt to get your credit card number, and even ask you for your “Medicare number” which of course is your Social Security number something you should never give to anyone over the phone. Once you fall for the pitch and give out your credit or debit card number, it isn’t easy to cancel. This is just a way to sell you this service, a service that you mayor may not want. The next thing you know, you’re billed $35 a month for that supposedly free medical alert system. Some people did receive a medical alert product—but not the Life Alert system. Others didn’t get anything. Either way, there’s that monthly fee to deal with—not exactly free.
How to beat the bad guys
It’s important to remember these fraud fighting tips. These apply to all unsolicited telemarketing calls:
- · Never provide personal information to an unknown caller.
- Never respond to a “robocall” from an unknown company.
- Don’t press any key to talk to a human. Simply hang up.
Unfortunately, you can receive illegal robocalls even if your phone number is on the National Do Not Call registry. These calls are coming from crooks, often in a foreign country. They really don’t care about violating the Do Not Call rules – that is, unless they get caught.
If you’ve fallen for this medic alert scam, contact your bank or credit card issuer right away. Then file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, and the Indiana Attorney General’s Office.
As always if you feel that you have been scammed or someone is attempting to cheat you please contact Sgt. Chris Yagelski 873-1461 ext. #333 or email ASKACOP@Emichigancity.com.