Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 28, Number 4, 1 April 2011 — DCCA'S TIPS FOR KŪPUNA [ARTICLE]

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DCCA'S TIPS FOR KŪPUNA

The Hawai'i state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' web site provides the following information for kupuna. Hawai'i's kupuna population is often a target for scams or high-pressure sales tactics, mainly because they are generally more trusting and worried about their hnaneial futures. The tips listed helow are a few recommendations that the DCCA encourage all kupuna to consider. For more information eall 587-3222 or visit http://hawaii.gov/dcca/rico/consumer_tips/senior_tips/seniortips.

TIPS

» Be firm in your refusals. • If you're dealing with k a person on the phone,

it's ok to hang up on them. • If someone comes to your door, it's ok to tell them you're not interested in what they're

selling and close your door. ■ Don't be afraid to ask

questions. • Ask what recourse you'd have if you make a purchase and are not satisfied. • Always request written information, by mail, about the product, service, company, investment or charity and about the organization offering the product or service. • If you do not get answers to your question, hang up or refuse to deal with that company.

• Normally, scam artists are "smooth talkers" and will try to talk over you and not let you ask questions, or will not answer your qusetions. If you find this is happening to you, you may want to terminate the conversation. • Inform the caller that you want to eheek their company and/or product out and will eall them back when you make you decision. If the caller refuses to give you a phone number or name, you may want to think twice about dealing with them. • Beware if someone comes to your door to sell something, or if you receive unsolicited phone calls from people selling you something or telling you that you won a prize. • When shopping for a big ticket item, know what you want and what you are getting before signing and agreement. • Do not let anyone rush you. Making a hasty decision may cost you later.