BBB warns seniors about shopping and Medicare scams

MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) — The Better Business Bureau is warning seniors about scams this time of year. With online holiday shopping ramping up, the BBB says seniors are targeted in shopping scams that can include a text telling you to click on link about a problem with a package.

“Only go back to the source that you ordered something from if you think your package has been delayed. Do not ever click on that text,” said BBB Vice President Monde Donaldson.

Also, with Medicare open enrollment happening, Donaldson says scammers use the opportunity to steal seniors’ Medicare numbers.

“They should watch for people who are trying high pressure tactics. The other big thing they need to watch for is when they get their Medicare statement saying what kind of equipment or what kind of drugs they may have filled in the last quarter. If it tells you things that you didn’t order, then someone has stolen your identity and is making claims under your name,” said Donaldson.

The BBB is holding an event this Sunday for Baldwin County seniors to help stop them from becoming victims. The informative session is at noon at Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos Catholic Church on Highway 31 in Spanish Fort.