We’ve gathered 10 tips for protecting yourself and your privacy from those nasty folks trying to grab your savings.

Question: I always thought that my Social Security Number was my most acceptable ID.  Why do I often see it printed with Xs in place of the first 5 numbers?

Question: What can I do to protect myself from those pesky telemarketers?Answer: It seems that more and more businesses are trying to sell products, and charities are seeking donations, by telephoning people at home. Seniors, who are no longer employed and spend more time alone, are definitely being sought out by these telemarketers. Luckily, legal protections and do-it-yourself remedies can limit your receipt of unwanted phone calls and marketing scams.

Be on the look-out! Medicare seems to be sending an increasing number of written statements indicating services from doctors the patients never heard of, and certainly never met. Although such billings can usually be explained as valid and correct, there is no question that Medicare fraud is on the rise.

How to Prevent It; How to Deal With It

Identity theft is the crime that keeps on taking often for years. When someone steals your car, you can be pretty much back to normal in a few weeks. But if someone takes your identity, it may take months or even years to correct your credit records. During the frustrating cleanup period, you could be turned down for a significant loan like a home mortgage or new credit.

With the home real estate market in such turmoil in California, many homeowners, especially seniors, are considering staying in their homes and making home improvements and repairs. This can make the homeowner vulnerable to unscrupulous scammers and contractors in search of a quick buck.

Here’s the situation: You haven’t seen your elderly neighbor lately, but people you’ve never seen before are coming and going from her home. You don’t want to be snoopy, but you are concerned. What should you do?