The Rust Report Details How to Avoid Financial Fraud Scams

We're helping Del. Tom Rust get the word out about financial scams, especially targeting senior citizens. Here's the scoop from The Rust Report:

I recently held a forum in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General on the Financial Exploitation of Seniors. Over 100 residents attended the forum, and learned the most common types of fraud on seniors, how to spot a 'fraudster', how to avoid becoming a victim, and what to do if you think you have been victimized. Because the information presented at the forum applies to everyone, here are some tips I want to share with you:

• Don't give a business your SSN just because they ask.
• Check your credit report every 12 months (Equifax, Experian, or Trans Union)
• Don't give personal information over the phone, through the mail or on the internet unless you have initiated the contact.
• Do your homework. Check references, Google, Better Business Bureau, VA State Corporation Commission, Consumer Fraud Protection Bureau, Federal Trade Commission, and the Securities & Exchange Commission.

If you think you are a victim of fraud:

• Contact your local police or sheriff's office and file a criminal complaint.
• If you fall victim to identity theft while using the Internet, file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
• Contact your creditors and financial institutions
• Notify a national credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, or Trans Union) and file a fraud alert.
• Apply for an Identity Theft Passport through the Attorney General's office if you are a victim. This can prove that you were a victim of identity theft should anyone challenge you on your identify.

You can also download a copy of "How to Avoid Identity Theft and Guide for Victims" click here.