Fraud Watch Network helps protect Michigan families

Identity theft, debt collection scams, mobile phone cramming and a host of other types of fraud are pervasive these days across the state and nation.

Every 2 seconds someone’s identity is stolen and a con artist takes over their life. Scammers use the internet, telephones, mail, email and other means to separate people from their nest eggs.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, there were 14,284 debt collection con complaints, 10,357 mobile phone services scam reports and 10,338 identity theft complaints in Michigan last year alone.

That’s why AARP aims to arm Americans of all ages with the tools they need to spot and avoid scams so they can protect themselves and their families.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network -- at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork -- is a go-to resource for information about how people can safeguard their identity and outsmart con artists before they strike. These resources are free for anyone of any age.

Visitors to our Fraud Watch Network can get real-time alerts about the latest scams, tips on how to spot them, and help if you or someone you know has been victimized.

 A guide to outsmarting con artists with tips based on hundreds of undercover fraud tapes and hours of interviews with former scammers and their victims is available.

A scam tracking map features warnings from local law enforcement and first-hand accounts of breaking scams from people in your state. Sign up to get the latest scam alerts delivered right to your inbox.

 A fraud hotline enables you to talk to a trained volunteer for advice if you are worried you or a loved one has been scammed or if you suspect a scam in your community.

Call 877-908-3360 toll-free for the fraud hotline, to get resources by mail or sign up for phone alerts. 

Visit this website later this spring for details about upcoming fraud watch workshops near you.

If you would like a Fraud Watch Network presentation at your organization, club or place of worship, please contact Lisa Whitmore Davis at lwhitmoredavis@aarp.org