Scammers Targeting Local Residents

Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens (AASC) would like to remind seniors to be on high alert for local scammers attempting to gain access to their homes and personal information. The scammers are claiming to be offering services such as groceries and supplies.

We have had multiple reports from local residents saying individuals are posing as an employee of a local Area Agency on Aging, faith-based organization or civic group wishing to gather a grocery and supply list due to excess funds available within the agency or groups. These scammers are claiming to have already signed up neighbors for this program and may possibly be carrying a notebook with a checklist of some sort.

AASC, the local Area Agency on Aging provides in-home services, direct client care and home-delivered meals. These services are carried out through a scheduled appointments and performed with an individual carrying identifying markers related directly back to the Area Agency on Aging. At no time does AASC perform door-to-door marketing, solicitation or cold-calling.

Please remember to not divulge any personal information over the phone or in person such as your Social Security number, Medicare or Medicaid numbers, bank account numbers, banking information, credit card numbers or medication lists. Never give cash to anyone who comes to your door unsolicited or someone you are not familiar with. At no time will an employee of AASC ask for money. Never allow an unknown person into your home.

If an unidentified person attempts to contact you or a family member regarding the above mention services please contact the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office at (276) 988-0902. Reports previously made to the Sheriff’s Office state that the scammers may be a man and woman, Caucasian and driving a White Ford Taurus or a Nissan Altima both with Virginia tags. All help is appreciated.

AASC is one of Virginia’s 25 Area Agencies on Aging designated by the Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services to carry out the department’s mission to foster the dignity, independence and security of older Virginians by promoting partnerships with communities at the local level. AASC offers information and services for older adults residing in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell counties. Visit the organization’s website at www.aasc.org or call toll-free at 1-800-656-2272.