Fairfax County’s Silver Shield Anti-Scam Campaign

The Silver Shield Campaign helps older adults avoid being scammed by sharing critical information about current scams.

50+ Podcasts and Channel 16 Programs

SCAM ALERT!

5 Steps for Handling Door-to-Door Solicitors

Report a Scam / Find Consumer Protection Information

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Top 5 Scams

1. Be Aware. All are Strangers, Some are Scammers.
    
2. Request and verify solicitor and contractor licenses:
    • Solicitor Licenses – Call the county at 703-324-5966, TTY 711.
    • Contractor License – Call the state at 804-367-8511, TTY 711.
    • No license? Call police non-emergency at 703-691-2131, TTY 711.
    
3. Take your time. Seek second opinions. Check references.
    
4. Request written scope of work and cost estimates. Review agreements carefully.
    
5. Never pay more than 30 percent of total before work is done. Pay via credit card, if possible.

Report scams and unlicensed solicitors to the Fairfax County Police Non-Emergency Line at 703-691-2131, TTY 711.

• Find excellent information on a wide range of consumer education topics from the county’s Consumer Services Division.
   
• Subscribe to the county’s Golden Gazette for the latest county information on scams and news-to-use for older adults.