Multi-part radio documentary focus on Outsmarting the Scammers

The 99.3 Outsmarting the Scammers sessions have seen close intimate conversations with small groups and also larger meetings such as at Wellington on the Lake, above.

Fraud prevention – with a focus on a wide variety of scams against seniors – will highlight a six-part
Outsmarting the Scammers – Helping Seniors Fight Fraud series beginning Thursday on radio 99.3 County FM.

The multi-part radio documentary has been created to educate listeners on what to watch for, steps to take to avoid being scammed, and what to do if you are a victim of fraud.

Listeners will also hear compelling experiences from victims and their families. Some names of those interviewed have been changed at their request.

Retired CBC journalist Wendy Mesley narrates the series. She explores some of the most commonly reported tactics which include investment and lottery fraud, family and emergency cons and both online and phone call scams, “all intended to trick people into disclosing their sensitive personal and financial information.”

The Prince Edward County OPP logged 156 incidents in 2022 with losses ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars

“Seniors are especially targeted, often by people who seem trustworthy,” adds Mesley. “Like people they meet at church, or who come to their door selling fake services disguised as much needed help.”

Partnering with the Prince Edward County Detachment of the OPP, the Prince Edward County Community Care for Seniors Association, and the municipality, County FM has created this six-part documentary series as a public service in response to a growing problem.

“Scammers and their schemes are becoming more sophisticated and successful as the perpetrators get better and better at exploiting your trust,” said Constable Aaron Miller, PEC Community Safety and Media Relations Officer.

“As a community radio station, it’s our job to spread the word, and by this we hope to protect County residents,” said 99.3 County FM Chair, Jim JJ Johnston. “This is a great opportunity to hear about the types of scams, listen to real victims’ stories and gain tips on how you can protect yourself. Even if you are not a senior, this information is valuable for protecting yourself and the people that you care for.”

Once broadcast, each episode of the six-part series will be available to stream in its entirety on the website at 993countyfm.ca

The series production was funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.

99.3 CountyFM also continues to present a series of live events across the County to help fight fraud.
The remainder of the sessions includes:

Elks Lodge, Picton Feb. 16 2:30 p.m.
Bloomfield Town Hall Feb. 28 2 p.m.
Ameliasburgh Town Hall March 5 2 p.m.
Milford Condo Building, Picton for residents & family only March 15.
Prince Edward County Lions Club, Wellington – March 27 2 p.m.

The OPP reports the following as common frauds and scams:

Emergency – Is a supposed loved one reaching out to you because they need money immediately and you’re the only one they trust to keep it a secret? Resist the urge to act immediately and verify the person’s identity by making the outgoing call you have listed for them in your contact list.

Gift Cards – Gift cards are a popular and convenient way to give a gift. They should also be considered like cash; once they are exchanged, it is unlikely that you are getting your money back. Gift cards are not meant for payments and no legitimate business or organization will request these as payments, especially under pressure.

Counterfeit Merchandise – Look out for huge and flashy discount ads on social media or in unsolicited emails that direct you to websites that look like legitimate manufacturers. If you do receive any inferior/counterfeit products, they could pose significant health risks.

Selling Goods & Services Online – Be suspicious of customers offering to pay more than the asking price. When selling goods and services online, always confirm that you have received a legitimate payment before you send the product. Fraudsters will also target anyone selling a vehicle online. Make sure to use reputable websites if a vehicle history report is required.

Crypto Investments – Scammers are using social media and fraudulent websites to promote fraudulent crypto investment opportunities. Prior to investing, always ask for information on the investment. Research the team behind the offering and analyze the feasibility of the project. Verify if the company is registered by using the National Registration Tool (www.aretheyregistered.ca).

Romance Scams – An attractive fake identity lures you into a web of lies spun with loving messages and sweet promises. The fraudsters play on your emotions to get you to send them money for various, convincing reasons. Never send money to someone you have never met!

Online Shopping – Fraudsters pose as genuine sellers and post fake ads for items that do not exist. The listing price for almost any item (e.g. event ticket, rental, vehicle, puppy) is usually too good to be true. Research before you buy.

Cellphone and Internet Service Provider Scam – If you are looking to purchase a new cellphone, don’t fall for an incoming call claiming to be from your service provider. Always find the official phone number for your service provider and make the call yourself.