Scam Alert

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

Scam artists often use internet, mail, phone, or personal contact to target vulnerable populations such as the elderly or disabled. In 2008, San Bernardino County’s Department of Aging and Adult Services and Program Development Division partnered together and responded to the need to alert DAAS customers of possible scams by implementing a Scam Alert system, a quick and effective way to communicate information about current scams to staff and customers. The goal of the Scam Alert is to prevent victimization of vulnerable populations served by DAAS. In the Scam Alert System, scams are identified by various sources, including elder abuse list servers, district attorneys, law enforcement personnel, and seniors themselves. Information about possible scams is provided to DAAS, and reviewed by PDD and County Counsel prior to the development and issuance of an Alert, to avoid publication of incorrect or inaccurate information. A written Scam Alert is created and distributed to departments and agencies serving the County’s elderly and disabled populations. Scam Alert flyers have a standard format, are designed to be easily accessible to the public, and can be printed and posted on bulletin boards in office lobbies, copied for individuals, or placed on agency websites.