We need to protect our senior citizens against scams

To the Editor,

   I recently witnessed the potentially devastating impact of scam calls on seniors. Like many others from their generation, my parents find comfort and security in using a landline. However, this choice exposes them to a continuous stream of unwanted and deceitful calls that exploit their vulnerability.

   An astonishing 85 percent of landline calls (https://joinimp.com/blogs/news/landline-landscape-2022-q-4-report) are now categorized as spam or unwanted. My parents are frequently targeted, enduring persistent intrusions into their daily lives. They recently narrowly escaped falling prey to a caller who disguised their intentions by requesting their bank details for account verification. It was a close call that motivated me to take action.

   Following thorough research, I promptly added their number to the Do Not Call list and began exploring spam call-blocking solutions. However, this journey unveiled a harsh reality: there is a pressing need for more resources to educate and protect seniors against this growing threat effectively. Furthermore, this issue carries significant weight, as almost half a million seniors in Iowa (www.communityphone.org/landline/ia#landline-usage-statistics) relay on landlines today.

   The consequences of these scams extend beyond emotional distress; they also lead to substantial financial losses. According to the FBI’s Elder Fraud Report of 2022 (www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2022_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf) a staggering $12,082,177 was lost due to scams, and 557 senior victims over 60 years old in Iowa alone were targeted. On average, seniors lose $500 or more when they become victims of these malicious schemes.

   State and local authorities must step forward and take decisive action to address this pressing issue. Our seniors depend on us. The time has come to allocate the necessary resources to develop comprehensive educational programs that equip them with the knowledge and tools required to safeguard themselves.

Kenneth Brooks

Monticello, Iowa