This month, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is beginning its #FraudFriday alert series where experts who prosecute financial crimes will offer warnings about the latest ploys targeting consumers in Los Angeles County — with a special emphasis on safeguarding seniors. Alerts will be sent out every other Friday.

In an effort to fulfill the goal and in anticipation of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15, Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey and her office are dedicating the first #FraudFriday alert to financial elder abuse. For information on scams targeting people ages 65 and older, visit http://da.lacounty.gov/seniors.

Criminals are able to trick many seniors into sending them money, according to the District Attorney’s Office. In the “Grandma Scam”, con artists use information about the victim’s family members, gleaned from social media sites, to persuade them to send money supposedly to get a grandchild out of jail.

The District Attorney’s Office recommends people to be aware of common scams like the “Grandma Scam” and to spread awareness.

Additionally, the office recommends people use caller ID or an answering machine to screen calls and to not pick up the phone unless the number is recognizable. If the person on the other line is claiming to be a family member in need of money, verify if it’s true. Call the grandchild or his/her parents. Lastly, establish a secret password with family members so that you are able to verify it is truly a family member calling.

If you are concerned that a senior is being scammed, contact your local law enforcement agency or the Los Angeles County Elder Abuse Hotline at (877)477-3646.

Follow @LADAOffice on Twitter for up-to-date news or tweet us with #FraudFriday to share experiences and tips to combat financial crimes.