Scammers

It’s likely, according to AARP, your personal information has been stolen. Many entities have your personal information – credit card and bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, and health-related information – and data breaches have exposed it. AARP Oklahoma State Director Sean Voskuhl offers a few tips to keep your information secure.

“The best thing you can do is place a security freeze on you credit accounts with the three big credit reporting agencies so no one can open a new account in your name. Also sign up for online access to your accounts and monitor them regularly. And be sure to use unique password for every account. You might want to consider using a password manager.”

 

And those trying to get your personal information are becoming more creative in finding ways to do so.

“Scammers are working extra hard to get your information. They’re using text, email and phone scams to contact you, and even job listings. Job sites are filling up with work-from-home scams offering opportunities that really are too good to be true. If they seek personal information like your social security number before you are hired, that’s a big red flag.”

 

AARP offers resources to spot and report scams at aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.

Finally, of note for rural residents, phone companies are retiring the 3G cellular networks that debuted in 2002. Voskuhl says make sure you have an up-to-date cell phone, or you’ll lose service.

“Network providers are shutting off 3G networks as early as February 22 in favor of newer technology, as 4G and 5G networks are the new norm. Millions of people, including many older adults, still rely on phones and other devices that tap into 3G. Make sure you have an up-to-date phone before your network switches. Your phone will no longer work and won’t be able to make emergency calls.”