How to avoid fraud

A recent article in the Vancouver Sun sketched a story of an elderly man, Leslie Harrison (aged 75), who lost his assets in an apparent fraud.

The alleged perpetrator was arrested and the matter is going to trial, but it is not believed the victim will recover his assets, valued at more than $200,000.

The man’s house is in foreclosure. He has no place to live now but will probably end up in an apartment. Details of the fraud will become clear after the trial.

The main question is whether anything can be done systematically to help people who live alone, especially if they have no family. Elderly people in this situation are among the most vulnerable in our society.

One answer to this important question is to contact the Public Guardian & Trustee and the Police, to get general advice.

And if a person approaches you and proposes some kind of “deal” or opportunity, bring it before a Lawyer and get advice.

This ad ran in the Richmond Review on June 26, 2015.