Since older people tend to suffer more chronic illnesses, they're especially vulnerable to getting taken in by quacks - people who knowingly sell worthless, unproven, even downright dangerous remedies. Anti-aging potions, arthritis remedies and cancer cures are among the favourite products used to lure victims.

How can you protect yourself from getting ripped off by quacks? First of all, remember: if it sounds "too good to be true," it probably is. Don't always believe what you see and hear in ads. And watch for these common ploys:

• promises of a quick or painless cure
  
  
• claims of a "special" or "secret" formula only available by mail from one source
  
  
• presenting testimonials from "satisfied patients"
  
  
• advertising that a product works for a wide variety of ailments
  
  
• claiming to have a cure for a disease that isn't understood by medical science yet

If you're concerned about any claims made for a particular product, be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before you buy it.