Be Aware at a Vulnerable Time

The loss of a loved one places you in a very difficult emotional space. The grief can disrupt your frame of reference and make you feel disoriented, affecting your judgment.

Your loss might make you feel uncertainty and ambiguity, which are very uncomfortable. This can cause you to be very vulnerable to people who propose to create stability by making you feel better, feel certain.

Unfortunately, fraudsters and scammers target people who are in mourning. Personal information is provided in obituaries and scammers can use this information to learn additional details through social media. Being armed with so much knowledge makes it easier for scammers to convince a potential victim that their request is legitimate.

Personal Information

Most scams involve getting someone's personal information under false pretenses. The scammer usually portrays a sense of urgency, pretending to be someone legitimate to trick someone into providing personal information.

You may be asked to help a dear friend or family member, with sacrifices that go beyond what is reasonable. Criminals can pose as a family member, using the emotional vulnerability caused by a death to obtain money. In some cases the scammer tells the victim they are stranded while trying to return home for a funeral. Be sure that the person asking is who they say they are, and possibly confer with trusted advisers about the reasonableness of any such request.

Social Media

If you use social media to connect with your friends at this difficult time remember that the lines between personal and public are easily blurred on social media sites. Unless you are very confident in your understanding of privacy settings, beware of revealing personal information during your online conversations.

A Little Extra Caution

Be extra cautious about giving out any personal information at this time. Whether responding to a phone caller or entering condolences on our website, do not reveal personal information to strangers.

Possibly you should seek advice from trusted friends before making any major decisions, entering agreements, or sending money to anyone.

If you think a member of your family is vulnerable, consider reaching out with a gentle warning about the possibility of scams. Often simple awareness is the best protection.