HAVRE, Mont. (NMB) – Scammers are taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and are targeting and wreaking havoc on seniors and disabled citizens.
Marci Bergren with the Hill County Council on Aging says these fraudulent scammers are using fear tactics to take advantage of the community during this tough time.
“They try and push the people into doing things that they wouldn’t normally do. Like giving out their Medicare number, or opening an email or text message that will start a virus, or trying to get them to donate money to help with the pandemic expenses to find a cure for the coronavirus or get a kit so they can test themselves.”
Bergren says these scammers have hit Hill County and she wants people to be prepared to deal with their schemes appropriately.
“Don’t answer the phone calls. Don’t fall for the click and bait where they’re trying to get you to open an email – just try and skip and delete that email without opening. Watch out for imposter emails. Ignore online offers for vaccinations or miracle treatments and they need to do their homework when considering making any donation.”
Bergren also warns against misleading prescription discount cards that will sell your information for profit upon activation.
If you have been scammed or need more information call the Senior Medicare Patrol at 800-513-191 or Consumer Protection at 860-713-6300.
