Protecting Your Family from Fraud

Charlotteans, are you scam proof?

Most of us like to think that we’re too smart to get caught up in a scam. But these days it is much easier than you might think to fall victim to a scam that could cheat you out of your identify and your hard-earned money.

For years, AARP North Carolina has had a Fraud Fighters volunteer program that helps educate the public about fraud and how they can protect themselves. Here in Charlotte, AARP is working with other organizations and agencies that target fraud so that consumers can be mindful of the traps that often catch unsuspecting victims. This fall, AARP is partnering with the Better Business Bureau Consumer Foundation on two Fraud Awareness programs in Charlotte that will both help inform people of what to look out for but also teach them what to do if they suspect fraud.

“These programs are important for everyone, but particularly for people over 50”, said Mike Olender, AARP Associate State Director based out of Charlotte. “Criminals that commit identify theft and run scams often specifically target older people because they believe they are more vulnerable. If you have an aging parent ,it is important to educate yourself through AARP’s workshops and web resources so you can share it with your parents or be able to detect the warning signs of fraud and look out for them”, he said.

This past year, AARP launched the national Fraud Watch Network to help share information and collect stories about fraud taking place. The Fraud Watch Network gives you access to information about how to protect yourself and your family. Non-members and members alike can get our Watchdog Alerts, stay up on con artists’ latest tricks, and find out what to do if you’ve been victimized. It’s free for everyone because AARP is committed to safeguarding Americans’ financial futures.

The Fraud Watch Network has also developed a Fraud Watch Map, where visitors can click on their state and get alerts on specific scams taking place in North Carolina. Organizations and agencies can post their press releases and alerts directly on to the map so the information is timely and helpful. To see what scams are targeting North CArolians, visit the Fraud Watch Map (linked).

Even with current information on scams, you still need to be on your toes.

“We encourage people to take our on-line quiz to see how vulnerable they may be to scammers, Olender said. “It’s a real eye-opener, and if you have an aging parent, its important to make sure you’re aware of the habits that make us easy targets”

Take our Scam Quiz.  

To request a fraud presentation for your organization, please contact Mike Olender, AARP Associate State Director, at molender@aarp.org or (704) 359-7407.