Ex-Scam Artist Shares His Exploits, Expertise in Metro Detroit

Every 2 seconds, someone’s identity gets stolen. That’s why AARP launched the Fraud Watch Network – to arm people of all ages with the tools they need to spot and avoid scams.

Frank Abagnale knows all the scams from the inside. Between the ages of 16 and 21, Abagnale successfully posed as an airplane pilot, an attorney, a doctor and cashed millions in fraudulent checks. His exploits were depicted in the movie ‘Catch Me If You Can,’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio. He has written three books on fraud and scams and is a consultant to the FBI.

These days, Abagnale is an AARP Fraud Watch Ambassador, who has helped raise awareness of criminal activities such as the “tech support scam,” in which fraudsters pose as technicians from one of the major computer companies to gain access to personal computers, files, passwords and credit card information.

Abagnale is coming to Metro Detroit in May to share his special expertise.

AARP is excited to host this free event, which will allow local community members, public safety activists, local law enforcement and interested citizens to come together to learn how to avoid becoming the victim of scams and work together to fight fraud. This consumer education program is coming to Macomb County, one of the fastest-growing counties in Michigan.

Abagnale shares his identity theft prevention expertise and stories about his exploits on  Tuesday, May 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield Rd., Clinton.

To register, call 1-877-926-8300 or https://aarp.cvent.com/fwncmiyc0516 for online registration details.