Dear Abby: While dining out these past couple of weeks, I have noticed something troubling.
I have overheard several elderly people talking very loudly on their cellphones and giving out personal information.
I overheard one woman from across the restaurant tell someone on the other end where her checkbook and deposit slips were located and repeat her account number. She even revealed her account balance. (There was well over $11,000 in her checking account.) Abby, anyone could have followed that woman home and robbed her blind.
Please print this as a reminder to everyone — but especially the elderly — that conversations like this should be conducted in a private setting, away from prying ears. — Jamie
Dear Jamie: What you have described should never be discussed in a public place where it can be overheard. The next time it happens, approach the talker and explain that you heard the conversation clearly — and the next person who eavesdrops could take him or her to the cleaners.
Identity theft can take years to straighten out — and there are far happier ways to spend one’s final years.
Dear Abby: I’m a 14-year- old boy with a twin sister. We have always shared a room. My sister trusts me and isn’t shy about undressing in front of me. She has a very attractive body, and I’m ashamed to say this, but I’m starting to have the wrong kind of feelings when I see her — if you know what I mean. Under the circumstances, I don’t think we should be sharing a room anymore.
We have a 16-year-old stepsister who lives with us. She has her own room, but she and my sister don’t get along. I think it would be more appropriate for them to share a room since we don’t have an extra bedroom.
If I say this, it’ll just look like I want my own room unless I tell everybody the reason.
What can I do? —Ashamed
Dear Ashamed: Please stop feeling ashamed. You are maturing right on schedule. The time has come to have a frank talk with an adult male relative about this. This could be your father, your stepfather, an uncle, a grandparent — depending upon the makeup of your family. Believe me, they will understand. I agree there should be some changes in your household.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
