Rende: scams targeting the elderly, the Carabinieri's awareness campaign on the phenomenon continues.

The “fake Carabiniere” scam and the amount to pay to avoid the arrest of your child.

A social plague that claims victims every day despite the commitment of various institutions, not least the Carabinieri which has always carried out awareness campaigns in this sense.
The information process put in place by the Rende Company Command on the topic of scams targeting the elderly continues.

The program focuses on disseminating valuable guidance and advice to avoid falling into the trap of unscrupulous people. From the dissemination of information brochures to the publication of posters with small but specific focuses on the phenomenon, up to meetings with the elderly and their families.

The latter is a direct way to collect questions and doubts and clarify what behavior to adopt in the event of an "attack".
The meetings take place cyclically and on several occasions in all the centers of the jurisdiction, from Rende a Luzzi, Rose, Lattarico, San Fili, Bisignano, San Pietro in Guarano, Montalto Uffugo, up to Acri, with the precious collaboration of the parish priests and the centers elderly people.

The Carabinieri underlined the importance of awareness and prompt reaction when faced with suspicious situations. The most common tricks used by scammers such as those of the fake policeman or the fake lawyer have been explained. The goal is to prevent and provide the tools necessary to protect yourself.

There were many questions: from how to defend yourself from strangers who don't know you, to how to recognize a real policeman from a fake one. In this regard, it is useful to always verify the identity of people by calling 112, always being wary of anyone asking for money and jewellery.
Security is an absolute good which, too often, is jeopardized by the actions of unscrupulous criminals who take advantage of good faith.

It is therefore important to reiterate some fundamental advice to avoid falling into the trap of scammers:
1. Verify the identity of the callers If you receive a call or a visit from someone who presents themselves as a representative of a company or institution, always ask for identity verification, such as a badge or reference number, in case of in doubt, contact 112, a relative or a neighbour;
2. Be wary. Always maintain an attitude of healthy distrust towards strangers who try to involve you in unusual offers or requests;
3. Do not give or share personal, financial or sensitive information with strangers over the phone, via email or in person unless you are sure it is legitimate;
4. Do not make advance payments for services or products, especially if you are offered exceptional discounts or promotions.
5. Consult trusted people, family members, trusted friends or professionals who can offer you objective advice before making important decisions, such as signing contracts or making significant payments.
6. If you suspect that you are a victim of a scam or have received a suspicious call, contact the nearest Carabinieri station or 112 immediately, to prevent others from being deceived;
7. Monitor your bank accounts, credit cards and financial transactions regularly. Immediately report any suspicious activity to the relevant banks or authorities;
8. Stay informed: Keep up to date on the most common types of scams and how scammers try to deceive older people. This way you will be better prepared to recognize and avoid potential scams.