60 and over in the time of COVID-19? Tips to Stay Financially Healthy.

60 and over during the Pandemic – tips to stay financially healthy.
WARNINGS FROM THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

March 30, 2020 – a reprint from article by Jennifer Leach, Association Director, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC.

I know, 60-year-olds. You’re not old. In fact, we’ve found that, when people think “old,” they think of someone about 10 years older than they are right now. But, because we’ve been warned about the effects of the Coronavirus on people 60+, listen up. Because scammers follow the headlines and know you might have this on your mind.
Right now, scammers are scuttling out of their dark corners to offer false hope (Home test kits! A cure!) and use fear (Your Social Security number is about to be revoked! Your loved one is in trouble!) – all to get your money or information. (None of those things are real, by the way.) They’re asking for your bank routing number to “help” you get your relief money – which is not how you’ll get it, by the way. They’re sending fake emails that look real, but those fake CDC or World Health Organization emails are trying to steal your personal information – or, if you click a link, put malware on your computer, tablet, or phone. Scammers are calling (and calling…and calling…), using illegal robocalls to pitch you the latest scammy thing. They’re texting, and they’re all over social media.
So, while you’re washing your hands and working to stay safe, here are a few ways you can help protect yourself – and those you love – from scammers.

• Don’t be rushed. Whatever the call, email, text, or social media post is about, remember that scammers try to rush you. Legit people don’t.
• Check it out. Before you act on something or share it – stop. Do some research. Do the facts back up the story?
• Pass it on. If you get offered something great, or you’re worried about something alarming: talk to someone you trust before you act. What do they think?
• Keep in touch with the FTC. Sign up for Consumer Alerts to help spot scams: ftc.gov/subscribe. And watch for the latest at ftc.gov/coronavirus.
• Report scams to the FTC. Go to ftc.gov/complaint. Your report can help us shut the scammers down.

Want to help even more? Pass this post on. Tell a friend. And hey, let’s be careful out there.

MUSINGS FROM DIANE:
Ahh, our golden years!!  A dream of a peaceful life, time with family, the financial and physical ability to do whatever you want. Those are powerful ideals, but they come at a price. What is the price? Diligence and commitment.  The diligence to question the intentions of those who would profit from your naivete (yes, that includes family).  The commitment to follow through.  Want to ride a bike or skydive, then get in shape.  Take the time to exercise your body and mind.  Lose weight (trust me you will sleep better and feel years younger).  Move – stop sitting in front of the TV and take a walk.  Help others – volunteer in a way that is important to you.  Love children?  How about volunteering at a school or other groups that desperately need loving arms to hold a crying child.  Love crafting, sewing or knitting?  Volunteer to teach others the skills that you have. The options are limited only by your imagination, but nothing will happen unless you get up and doing something.

I would love to hear from each of you about what brought excitement to your day.

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