Free fraud prevention program available to seniors

Tech

Feb 15

The Better Business Bureau in Western Michigan Educational Foundation, in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and other sponsors, are providing an expanded lineup of free fraud-prevention presentations to seniors in Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Lowell, Holland, and Grandville. The Red Flags of Fraud presentations give older adults valuable information about local scams and tactics used by scammers. They also provide tools and resources consumers can use to prevent becoming victims of these common scams.

“Scammers are constantly changing the way they target individuals to steal money and personal information. Knowing how to spot these scams ahead of time is the best way to stay safe,” said Lisa Frohnapfel, President and CEO, Better Business Bureau in Western Michigan. “Partnering with BBB Accredited Businesses like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan allows us both to equip and protect our local senior citizens, while saving their hard-earned money.”

Attendees will learn the most popular ways scammers try to take their money and information and see the scam in action using real-life examples from the Better Business Bureau. From online shopping scams to identity theft and popular scams targeting seniors, this is an opportunity for the community to gain critical skills to prevent becoming the victim of fraud. Takeaways will also include how digital tools can help you access health care and the importance of using them safely to protect your identity.

“Increasing access to health care is one of our top priorities at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan,” said Krischa Winright, President of Medicare Advantage. “While digital tools like virtual appointments or apps to help manage conditions can help expand access to care and information, we need to help our seniors stay safe in the digital world. We’re pleased to sponsor these presentations alongside the Better Business Bureau and keep seniors safe as they take advantage of today’s digital tools.”

The Red Flags of Fraud series is presented by Better Business Bureau in Western Michigan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Centennial Securities, Ayers Basement Systems, and Fifth Third Bank. For a list of presentation dates, locations, and to register, visit: https://www.bbb.org/local/0372/wmiprograms/registration.