AARP Launches “Operation: Stop Scams” with Events in Communities Nationwide

Document-Shredding Events and Education Sessions Will Help Consumers Avoid Fraud

Los Angeles, CA. – The AARP Fraud Watch Network brings fraud-fighting efforts to consumers nationwide in “ Operation: Stop Scams” -- a month-long series of events in communities coast-to-coast, as AARP state organizations sponsor more than 150 free local events in nearly every state and the District of Columbia from Friday, April 14, through Tuesday, May 16, 2017.

Events include: paper-shredding events, fraud education programs – popularly referred to as “scam jams,” Fraud Watch Network background presentations, tele-town halls and phone bank call-out sessions to warn consumers of the latest scams.  Consumers can find their closest local event at www.aarp.org/OperationStopScams.

In Los Angeles, our two free "Operation: Stop Scams" shredding events will take place on Saturday, April 22 and Friday, April 28t.

Saturday, April 22nd. From 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. Shredding service begins at 9:15 a.m., and will continue until 12:00 noon, or until the on-site shredding service truck reach full capacity.                                                                                                                                                                Where: Offices of Council District Current Price , 4301 S. Central Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90011

Friday, April 28th. From 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.                                                                                                                                                             Where: Rosemead Community Center, 3936 N. Muscatel Ave. Rosemead, CA 91770. In Collaboration with Familia Unida’s Evening of Health & Wellness.

“Many Americans clear out and discard their obsolete financial documents at the end of the tax-filing season in April.  Our shredding events in dozens of communities provide a convenient and safe way for people to destroy this sensitive paperwork,” said Nancy LeaMond chief advocacy and engagement officer, AARP.  “April also brings the personal finance awareness activities of Money Smart Week, so we’re excited to do our part with events to teach consumers to be smart about avoiding fraud and scams.”

Money Smart Week , April 22-29, is a collaborative between thousands of organizations across the United States that offer financial education programs, classes and activities.

“I am very excited to partner with AARP California and their Fraud Watch Campaign. We will help protect neighbors in the 9 ^th Council District by providing them an easy and secure way to destroy personal information, which is the first step to keep their identity protected.” said Councilman Curren Price.  “Scammers are after people’s hard earned money, no matter their age, which is why I am encouraging our local community to take advantage of this free and valuable service AARP is providing.”

“Identity thieves routinely search through dumpsters and trash cans, looking to find confidential information they find in people’s bank and credit card statements, bills and other documents.  Our Operation: Stop Scams event will allow consumers to discard this paperwork in a safe and secure manner,” said Nancy McPherson, AARP CA State Director.”

Examples of AARP “Operation: Stop Scams” events range from a financial forum in Louisville, Ky.; to a “Scam Jam” in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; to a Clinton Township, Mich., presentation by AARP Fraud Watch Network Ambassador Frank Abagnale.  Paper-shredding events total more than 100.  Some 250 tons of sensitive documents were destroyed during a similar AARP National “Shred Fest” in 2016.

About the AARP Fraud Watch Network

The AARP Fraud Watch Network launched in 2013 as a free resource for people of all ages.  The website provides information about fraud and scams, prevention tips from experts, an interactive scam-tracking map, fun educational quizzes, and video presentations featuring Fraud Watch Network Ambassador Frank Abagnale.  Users may sign up for “Watchdog Alert” emails that deliver breaking scam information, or call a free helpline at 877-908-3360 to speak with volunteers trained in fraud counseling.