As the holidays approach, so do scam artists.
Virtually every day, there is another article in the paper or report on television about a vulnerable adult or senior citizen being fleeced out of their money by someone that they trust. In many cases, it is a family member.
Any time you are approached by anybody who asks you for money, you should contact an attorney, CPA or independent family friend to assess the situation.
Many requests are legitimate. Every person has the freedom to do what they want to with their own money. Senior citizens in particular are, however, very vulnerable and are easy prey for people who know how to play on their emotions.
The suggestion here is that you ask an independent person for his or her opinion about what you should or should not do. Don’t do anything in terms of giving your money to anyone until you have asked for a second opinion.