Scam artists go through trash for personal information and account numbers. Tear yours into pieces.

Your personal information isn't safe in a garbage can or a recycling bin.  Don't carelessly toss receipts, old bank statements or "junk mail". Tear or shred the material before throwing it away.  Identity theft leads to dollar theft.  This simple exercise will help protect you from becoming an easy target.

Scam artists get rich on other people's Social Security, PIN or account numbers. Keep yours private.

Whether over the telephone, on your doorstep or over the Internet, don't give your private financial information to a stranger or to someone with whom you haven't initiated contact.  Instead, ask the person contacting you for information in writing.  Although you may never receive this information, you give yourself the opportunity to find out whether the offer is legitimate before you act too quickly and give your financial information to a professional scam artist.

Scam artists hope you'll hand over money without seeking a trusted person's opinion. Tell them no.

Scam artists will sound friendly, articulate and trusting.  They hope you are trusting, too.  Just like with your health, there's nothing wrong with getting a second opinion when it comes to your financial activity.  Talk to friends, colleagues and family members.  Or, seek the advice of a professional in the industry you are interested in learning more about.  The more you know, the better the decision you'll make.

Scams can be hidden between the lines of legal papers. Make sure you understand what you sign.

Official-looking documents can be complicated to read, difficult to understand, and filled with industry jargon.  Contact a lawyer or experienced friend or relative to be your second pair of eyes before you commit to an offer.  As the saying goes, "Always read the fine print!"

One scam promises to help you get back money you've lost in another scam. Watch out.

Oh no, not again!  You've been scammed before.  Don't let it happen to you again.  Now is your chance to use all you've learned in the past: research the offer, ask a trusted friend about it, and file a report with the proper authorities.  Do your part – be a senior scam stopper!

Scam artists try to pressure you for money up front. Don’t give in.

Take time to investigate offers prior to making an investment.  When an individual demands money upfront and quickly, don't feel pressure to make a decision that moment.  Always carefully consider offers requiring money up front.  You may want to contact your Better Business Bureau if you have any doubts on the legitimacy of an offer. 

Some scam artists pretend to represent a needy charity. Make sure it is real before you contribute.

Professional scam artists will target your heart and good nature.  Only give money to charities you know are valid.  Frequently, new charities emerge following a recently publicized disaster or cause.  Research the charity asking you for money before you make a donation via the telephone, through the mail or over the Internet.

Scams often start with a telephone offer that sounds too good to be true. It probably is.

Scam artists are professional liars who have mastered the perfect sales pitch.  Their offers will often include promises of free rewards such as vacations, expensive gifts, or lottery winnings.  Limited-time offers or those carrying quick expiration dates also fall into the "too good to be true" category.  And, don't be taken in by scam artists offering "get rich quick" opportunities.  The truth is, they're the only ones getting rich.

Scam artists like to rush you into deciding “today.” Take your time and be sure.

Don't be pressured by a scam artist demanding an immediate answer.  Step back and carefully consider the "deal" you're being offered.  If getting back in touch with the person making you the offer is not an option, the "deal" offered is not for you.

Neighbors and even relatives are sometimes tempted to take advantage. Ask smart questions.

True or False?  Those you know and trust always have your best interest in mind.

Unfortunately, that statement is false.  If a neighbor, friend or relative desperately wants to involve you in a once-in-a-lifetime investment or seems too anxious to take control of your finances, make sure they are doing you a favor and not a disservice.