Holiday Fraud: Protect Yourself This Season

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The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and giving, but it also brings an increased risk of fraud. As people rush to buy gifts, donate to charities, and prepare for festivities, scammers are hard at work looking for ways to take advantage of the holiday hustle. Understanding the most common types of holiday fraud and how to protect yourself is essential to keeping your season merry and bright. That's why AARP is bringing you a wealth of information, tools, and resources to help you protect yourself and your family this season. See details below.

HOLIDAY FRAUD WORKSHOPS (In-Person)
The holiday season is a time for celebration, family, and giving. However, it's also a time when scammers and fraudsters are most active. In response to the growing threat of holiday fraud, AARP Louisiana is hosting a workshop to educate consumers on the latest scams, provide tips on how to protect themselves and offer an opportunity for participants to ask questions and share their experiences.

Baton Rouge
Date: Tuesday, November 12, 10 a.m.
Location: EBR Parish Main Library,
Register: CLICK HERE or call 977-926-8300

Shreveport
Date: Wednesday, November 13, 10 a.m.
Location: Sheriff's Safety Town, 8910 Jewella Ave, Shreveport, LA 71118
Register: Coming soon

Ascension Parish
Date: Tuesday, November 14, 11 a.m.
Location: Gonzales Branch Library, 708 South Irma Blvd.
Register: CLICK HERE or call 977-926-8300

Date: Monday, November 21, 11 a.m.
Location: Donaldsonville Branch Library, 500 Mississippi St.
Register: CLICK HERE or call 977-926-8300

HOLIDAY FRAUD TELEPHONE TOWN HALL (Virtual)
'Tis the season for celebration, but beware of scammers aiming to steal your holiday joy. Join us for a holiday fraud telephone town hall where we'll empower you with essential tips to safeguard yourself and your loved ones during this festive time.
Date: Wednesday, November 13, 10 am.
To join: Call toll-free 855-962-1521

FREE COMMUNITY SHREDDING (In-person)
To help protect citizens from identity theft, the AARP Louisiana Fraud Watch Network will host a series of free shred events to provide a safe location for residents to shred personal documents free of charge. Each car is limited to three bags/boxes. Suggested items include old tax documents, canceled or unused checks, credit cards, medical bills, investment account statements, and other items containing sensitive information. Registration is strongly encouraged.

Lake Charles
Date: Saturday, November 2, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Location: Park Plaza Shopping Center, 3005-3147 Hwy 14 (Gerstner Memorial Drive)
Register: CLICK HERE or call 977-926-8300

Shreveport
Date: Saturday, November 16, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Sheriffs Safety Town, 8910 Jewella Ave, Shreveport, LA 71118
Register: CLICK HERE or call 977-926-8300