Robocalls, Spam, and Scams: Don’t Let the Bad Guys Win!
It seems like every time we pick up the phone or check our email, someone’s trying to sell us something sketchy—or worse, scam us out of our money. If you’ve had it up to here with spam calls and junk texts, you’re not alone. This quick guide is here to help you recognize, avoid, and report the most common traps.
What Is Spam and Why Am I Getting It?
“Spam” includes unwanted:
- Phone calls from fake numbers (robocalls)
- Text messages offering miracle cures or sweepstakes
- Emails that say “You’ve won!” but end up stealing your info
Scammers target everyone, but they especially love going after older adults who they think might be more trusting. Not on our watch.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
1. Get on the Do Not Call List
It won’t stop everything, but it helps:
👉 www.donotcall.gov
2. Don’t Pick Up If You Don’t Know the Number
If it’s important, they’ll leave a message. Scammers often use fake numbers that look local to trick you.
3. Don’t Click Suspicious Links
If you get a text or email that seems odd—even if it looks like it’s from Amazon, Medicare, or a bank—don’t click anything. Go directly to the company’s official site instead.
4. Use Call-Blocking Apps
There are free and paid apps that filter out known robocallers:
- Nomorobo
- Hiya
- RoboKiller
- Truecaller
5. Keep Your Device and Antivirus Updated
Old software = easy target. Keep your phone or computer updated and run regular virus scans.
📢 What If You’ve Been Targeted?
🚨 Report it!
You can help shut scammers down:
- Colorado No-Call List: www.coloradonocall.com
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC): www.fcc.gov/complaints
💬 Tell Someone
If a call or message felt off—even if you didn’t fall for it—let a friend, family member, or someone here at Senior Town Hall know. You might help someone else avoid the same trap.
🧠 Pro Tip: You’re Not Rude — You’re Smart
It’s not rude to hang up on a scammer. It’s smart. You’ve got better things to do than listen to someone pretending to be from the IRS.
📥 Want a printable version of this guide for your fridge or bulletin board? Click below to download:
