Scam Alert: Keep Those Bedbugs Out of Your House, Tips to Prevent Infe... Scams & Fraud

Keep Those Bedbugs Out of Your House

The best prevention for bedbug scams is guarding against infestation. Here's how: Never bring secondhand furniture, especially mattresses or box springs, into your home without thoroughly checking for signs of an infestation. If you're not sure, consider having a pest control professional inspect the furniture.

When traveling, carry a small flashlight to inspect beds for blood spots or insect carcasses.

Bring a large plastic trash bag to keep your suitcase in during hotel stays—that way, the bugs won't be able to hop a ride home with you.

Vacuum suitcases after returning from a vacation.

Regularly inspect areas where pets sleep for signs of bedbugs.

Sid Kirchheimer is the author of Scam-Proof Your Life (AARP Books/Sterling). Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures

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