Scammers Now Using AARP Name in Colorado

Throughout Southern Colorado, police and the local media are taking new reports from residents who are receiving telephone calls from individuals stating they are from a well-know organization. In the latest case, they are saying they are with AARP.

The scammers are telling people that they have information about a new medical coverage program, but the caller must have the person’s bank account information.

Both Captain James L. Cox of the Canon City Police Department and the news staff of The Pueblo Chieftain are warning residents. All citizens are reminded to never provide personal information such as bank accounts numbers, social security numbers, or credit card information to anyone over the telephone, regardless of how convincing the caller may be.

Legitimate businesses do not solicit information by telephone, Cox said in an alert to The Pueblo Chieftain.
 
Older adults, who aren’t sure about a caller, are always encouraged to call AARP Colorado’s ElderWatch for help determining if they are being swindled before they give out any money, or information. Call ElderWatch at 1-800-222-4444.

ElderWatch has 176 local volunteers and among other things, they call people and warn them about scams and fraud against the elderly. ElderWatch has likely saved hundreds of thousands of people from being swindled.

“The authorities and media in Southern Colorado are working to spread the word about this scam, but it is likely happening all over the state,” said Angela Cortez, AARP Colorado spokeswoman. “Our name is a trusted one and that is why it’s being used in this terrible manner. Please, don’t give out any personal information to anyone who calls on the phone. They can claim to be anyone.”