Letter: Hopeful scammers stop preying on elderly

Congratulations to Congress for passing The Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act of 2017. There were some no votes and I wonder what those Congressmen were thinking.

I hope this bill has teeth in it so that it will deter unscrupulous scammers that prey on the elderly. Unfortunately, I doubt that it will. The reason for my pessimistic view is the Do-Not-Call Implementation Act of 2003. A great law, but the telemarketers don't comply and laugh all the way to the bank.

I have signed up all of our phones and at times filled out the complaint forms on line.

I still have calls to forgive my student loans, credit card debt, for home improvements, fix my computer and countless charities.

When I told the telemarketer that I was 70 and I didn't have any student loans he replied that I sounded much younger. He also wished me a thousand blessings and 70 more years of life. I told him if he didn't call again that would be a big blessing and my wife doesn't want me around for another 70 years.

I receive so many calls that if I did have friends they would not be able to reach me.

I seriously hope that this law works, but please remember buyer beware. Consult with family members or trusted friends on financial matters and more importantly just say no.

Steven C. Carfrae

Cedar Rapids