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Seniors Targeted by Bogus 'Census'

Mailer asks for information ... and credit card numbers

August 23, 2007

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Most people – not just senior citizens – are flattered when someone asks their opinion about issues of the day. But Indiana Attorney General Steve Carter warns a new direct mail pitch, in the form of a “Census of Senior Citizens,” is really just a money making scheme.

After asking a series of questions, the mailing requests the recipient send in a “contribution” to help defray the cost of the survey.

Carter says mailing may trick seniors into thinking it comes from the U.S. Census Bureau but in reality the solicitation may be nothing more than a scam to obtain recipient’s credit card information.

“This mailer is devious because some people may mistakenly think it’s an official survey from the federal government,” Carter said. “Our senior population is particularly vulnerable to these types of solicitations because they take their civic duty seriously and might be less likely to question it.”

The mailer purports to be from the “The Council of Seniors” and is titled, 2007 Census of Senior Citizens.

It tells the recipient “you have been selected as a representative of your voting district to take part in the official Census of Senior Citizens.”

It claims that the survey “will make it crystal clear to our leaders in Washington what our priorities are” and “it’s the best way to build a strong and united agenda that accurately represents the views of Senior Citizens across America.”

The “census” asks recipient’s opinions on hot button issues such as health care, immigration, and taxes. It requests that they make a donation to “The Council of Seniors” by sending a check or providing their credit card number. It also asks for reimbursement for printing and mailing costs even if recipients choose not to participate.

“Senior’s might think that by participating in the ‘census’ they will make an impact on national policies,” Carter added. “In reality all they may be left with is a financial headache.”

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