Tips Offered on Avoiding Telemarketing Fraud
The American Assn. of Retired Persons will hold a free training session at the Wilshire Boulevard Temple on Wednesday on combating telemarketing scams.
“We’re training volunteers how to recognize fraud,” said Carmen Ulmer, a spokeswoman for the association. “In turn, they can educate other seniors. We’re trying to expand our influence.”
Telemarketing fraud costs Americans up to $40 billion a year, Ulmer said, adding that the elderly are prime targets for the schemes. Phony prizes, illegal sweepstakes, fake charities and bogus investments are typical of the inducements used in telephone ploys.
The city of Los Angeles Department of Aging and the Volunteer Bureau are co-sponsoring Wednesday’s training session at the temple, 3663 Wilshire Blvd. Information: (888) 227-3452.
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