The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) and its member funeral homes are committed to protecting families during every stage of the funeral process, including guarding against those who seek to exploit them. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued a warning about a disturbing scam that specifically targets individuals who have recently lost a loved one.

How the Scam Works

In a recent case in Tulsa, a grieving daughter received a phone call she believed was from an insurance company. The person claimed that her loved one had taken out an insurance policy and that to receive the payout, she had to pay a deductible before the policy expired. It turned out to be a fraudulent scheme. According to the BBB, scammers often impersonate representatives from insurance companies and government agencies such as FEMA, promising funeral expense reimbursement.

These impostors may request money or sensitive personal details, including the deceased’s Social Security number or bank account information, under the guise of processing a claim. They rely on creating a sense of urgency and use the emotional vulnerability of grieving families to pressure them into acting quickly.

For more, check out the news story from Fox23 here. 

How to Protect Yourself

The BBB advises the following steps to avoid becoming a victim: 

• Pause and verify: Legitimate companies and agencies will not contact you unexpectedly. 
• Avoid acting under pressure: Scammers often use urgency as a tactic to override your caution. 
• Never share sensitive information: Don't share Social Security numbers, banking information, or death certificate details over the phone unless you initiated the contact and confirmed the recipient's identity. 
• Independently confirm: Hang up and call the organization directly using contact information from its official website. 
• Report suspicious activity: Notify the BBB via its Scam Tracker at www.BBB.org/ScamTracker or call the BBB at 775-332-0657 and notify your local law enforcement. 

OGR's Commitment to Grieving Families

OGR and its members are dedicated to ensuring that families receive the support, respect, and protection they deserve during one of life’s most difficult times. Through our partnership with My Grief Angels, families can access free online grief support programs, resources, and community connections for those navigating loss. Visit www.MyGriefAngels.com for more information. To find an OGR member funeral home near you, visit www.OGR.org.