Tips to Avoid Scams and Fraud

1. Do does not respond to texts from people you do not know or emails you did not expect
2. Never click on a link or download an attachment without verifying who it is from
3. Review your bank/credit card statements, bills, medical explanation of benefits for accuracy
4. Place a fraud alert a credit freeze on your credit report by calling the credit reporting companies:
   1. Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 or www.equifax.com
   2. Experian: 1-888-397-3742 or www.experian.com
   3. Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 or www.transunion.com

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How to Report Fraud

See the following information for how to report fraud: 

1. Contact your local Police Department
2. Middlesex County Consumer Affairs Office
3. Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office
4. NJ BBB: 609-588-0808 or http://newjersey.bbb.org
5. Federal Trade Commission: 1-877-FTC-HELP or www.ftc.gov
6. U.S. Postal Inspection Service: www.postalinspectors.uspis.gov
7. Senior Medicare Patrol

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Hotlines

See the following information for important hotlines to know

1. Elder Fraud Hotline: 877-746-7850
2. Insurance Fraud Tip Hotline 877-375-0309
3. Welfare Fraud: 800-792-9773
4. Identity Theft Hotline: 877-438-4338
5. Medical Recipient Fraud: 888-937-2835
6. Experian: 888-397-3742
7. IRS IP PIN Opt-in Program: www.IRS.gov/IPPIN

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Literature for Learning

See the following information for educational resources: 

Choose a trusted contact person

Older Americans are not alone in fighting financial abuse

Planning financially for diminished capacity and illness

Reporting elder financial abuse: Help for family and friends of people living in nursing homes and assisted living communities