When we read about the Golden Rule it is basically an ethical or morality code, you all remember this: One should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself.  The Golden Rule has been around for thousands of years and has been implemented into the society of ancient Babylon as well as every religion known to mankind. Unfortunately, there are those who have no morals and are unethical with their actions and dealings with others.

It seems every time I turn around I hear reports of yet another senior being hoodwinked by some charlatan out to prey upon the elderly by offering services that were never rendered, or products that are similar to that old snake oil salesman we used to read about from days of yore. There are sweet and caring elders whom do follow the Golden Rule themselves, however, they fall victim by trusting those that are only out for themselves with unscrupulous and devious actions. This can occur with face to face meetings or even on the worldwide web, and believe me no one is immune to being a victim, even savvy thinking seniors who are always aware and are not fooled easily. As a member of the senior population there is always that uneasy feeling that I get when I am wary of those that offer something that is “too good to be true”, especially in the case of weight loss promises and exercise products.

How many products have you seen on the market that are claiming to help you lose 30-pounds in 30 days, or perhaps an exercise device that will shape and add muscles to your soft and untoned body in record breaking time? I do not like advertising from questionable companies that insult my intelligence and try to scam, spam, slam, or sham me into something that is fraudulent and deceitful. I like to think that I was not born yesterday, but there are times when even I read into a claim that seems unbelievably easy to achieve without much or little effort.

There are even requests and spam emails that I receive from individuals and unknown companies that have informed me of winning a trip but somehow need bank account numbers or social security information to verify the win. Others are trying to dupe me into renting my summer home at a higher rental rate that I request, but just need a bank address and number so they can wire the money directly to them. The internet can be a scary place at times you never know who and what you are dealing with, it’s a jungle out there. Be wary of someone that wants your personal information, don’t open attachments if you have a “bad feeling” about it, guard yourself against viruses and scams; go with your initial gut feeling and try not to be trusting of everyone. Don’t think you will offend anyone after all it’s your information that is being compromised. I for one will always look for the good in people, however there are malicious masses in this world and we must protect ourselves from harmful forces. Take action and stand tall! The Roman philosopher Seneca once said, “Be wary of the man who urges an action in which he himself incurs no risk.”