State Rep. Laurie Davies, District 74 | Official U.S. House headshot
State Rep. Laurie Davies, District 74 | Official U.S. House headshot
Assemblywoman Laurie Davies hosted two public seminars in Oceanside and Vista to help seniors avoid scams. The events featured speakers including San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan, San Diego Sheriff Kelly Martine, representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Oceanside Police Department, and city officials such as Oceanside Deputy Mayor Ryan Keim, Councilmembers Peter Weiss and Rick Robinson, Vista Mayor John Franklin, and Deputy Mayor Katie Melendez.
In 2023, seniors in San Diego County lost more than $97.3 million due to various scams. Over 300 seniors attended the events in Oceanside and Vista. A former tech squad employee provided instructions on avoiding common computer scams.
Law enforcement officials presented on common scams and emphasized the importance of reporting them. They advised attendees to hang up if they receive suspicious calls or emails regarding their bank accounts, utility bills, or credit cards and to verify with the respective companies directly. Seniors were repeatedly warned not to give out personal or financial information over the phone.
“Providing seniors with the knowledge and tools to avoid scams is vitally important,” said Assemblywoman Davies. “We tell everyone that if something doesn’t seem right, close out your computer or hang up the phone call and tell a friend. Help is an option.”
Assemblywoman Davies has supported legislation aimed at providing law enforcement with more tools to combat thefts and extending the time for seniors to report fraud for a better chance of recovering lost money.
Common elder fraud schemes discussed included:
- Tech support scam: Criminals pose as tech support representatives to gain remote access to victims’ devices.
- Romance scam: Criminals pose as romantic partners online.
- Grandparent scam: Criminals pose as relatives needing immediate financial help.
- Government impersonation scam: Criminals pose as government employees threatening arrest unless payments are made.
- Sweepstakes/charity/lottery scam: Criminals claim victims have won lotteries or work for charities to gain trust.
- Home repair scam: Criminals charge upfront for home improvement services never rendered.
Seniors who suspect a scam or realize they have been defrauded should immediately contact their local police department.
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