Scams & Fraud

Last year the Federal Trade Commission recorded $10 Billion in reported fraud from U.S. consumers. Because fraud is underreported, we know that actual losses are much higher.

Connecticut consumers lost more than $70 million to fraud in 2023, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The Bulletin spoke with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong (D) in April about fraud-fighting efforts.

Spring has sprung and with warmer weather comes home repairs. Unfortunately, shady contractors are out there looking for homeowners in the market for spring repairs. Contractor fraud and home improvement scams can cost homeowners thousands of dollars and leave them with shoddy workmanship, unfinished projects, or even damage to their homes. Scammers often target older adults, but anyone can fall victim to these scams.

In 2023, Americans reported losing more than $10 billion to fraud—ranging from romance and investment schemes to gift card scams—according to Federal Trade Commission data. A new state law aims to protect older Americans from financial exploitation.

The numbers are in and last year was yet another historic year for fraud. The Federal Trade Commission released its annual compendium of fraud reports from 2023, and the news is shocking. For the first time ever reported theft through fraud topped $10 billion. The total is 14% higher than what was reported in 2022 and 5 times greater than reported losses in 2019. Key takeaways from the report include:

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New virtual presentation on scam prevention launches with steps consumers can take to protect themselves from identity theft.

AARP Connecticut – advocates for age 50+ Connecticut residents and their families – works with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to support legislation and issues that make our state a great place to live for people of all ages.

AARP will hold a town hall on holiday scams with the Better Business Bureau of Connecticut, among a number of initiatives to raise public awareness of fraud.

AARP Connecticut to Host Live Tele-Town Hall to Discuss Protecting Veterans from Scams