Telemarketing fraud robs U.S. citizens of at least $40 billion annually, according to Congressional estimates, and surveys by the American Association of Retired Persons indicate that over half of those victims are age 50 or older. The National Consumers League, the oldest nonprofit consumer organization in the United States, was established in 1899 to promote and protect consumers' social and economic interests. In light of the devastating emotional and financial impact of telemarketing fraud on seniors, NCL studied the problem in a comprehensive manner and developed new strategies for combating it.
A retreat was organized bringing together experts from law enforcement, consumer advocacy, psychology, gerontology, social marketing, and private business to learn what makes older people respond to fraudulent solicitations and brainstorm about the most effective messages to dissuade them from doing so. Using research from AARP and the knowledge of the participants in the Elder Fraud Project, the basic message that fraudulent telemarketers are criminals was distilled and new educational materials were developed.
The materials include:
You can view the brochure on this Web site and get single copies free from the National Consumers League. There is a small charge for bulk copies of the brochure and for the video and Elder Fraud report. Contact the National Consumers League for prices and to order.
The Elder Fraud Project was launched by the National Consumers League in late 1995 to address the problem of telemarketing fraud targeted to seniors. Our thanks go to the organizations that have supported our efforts to protect older consumers from telemarketing fraud.
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