AARP Oregon Recognizes Community Fraud Fighter Ellen Klem

As scams continue to soar across the country, it's crucial to have individuals dedicated to fighting fraud and keeping people and their money safe. According to the Federal Trade Commission, Oregonians lost a reported $98 million to illegal scams in 2023. However, these numbers reveal only a fraction of actual theft from fraud, since the crime is notoriously underreported.

AARP Oregon is proud to announce the recognition of Ellen Klem, Director of Consumer Outreach and Education for the Office of the Oregon Attorney General, as a Community Fraud Fighter of distinction. This acknowledgment is a testament to Ellen’s unwavering commitment to combatting scams and fraud that target Oregonians of all ages.

"No matter their age or income, Oregonians are under attack each and every day from these criminals,” said AARP Oregon State Director Bandana Shrestha. “They need strong allies like Ellen Klem involved this fight. We commend her passion for improving the lives of our vulnerable neighbors and applaud her commitment and dedication to fighting fraud and empowering Oregonians across the state.”

Ellen’s mission is to prevent financial harm to those in Oregon, especially older adults, Oregonians whose first language is not English, and students with large education-related debts. She has worked tirelessly to collaborate with AARP and other state agencies to bring invaluable and timely information and tools to empower Oregonians for over a decade. From Scam Jams, Telephone Town Halls, Veterans’ fraud prevention events and more, she has helped older Oregonians keep themselves and their families safe. Her “Six Signs It’s a Scam” presentation resonates with the public and provides an easy tool to recognize fraud.

Klem remarked, “I am honored to receive the 2024 Community Fraud Fighter of distinction. Receiving this award is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the collective efforts of a community devoted to empowering older adults to fight fraud. Thank you to AARP and all the others who help our community fight the devastating impacts of fraud.”

AARP Oregon is dedicated to equipping people of all ages with the knowledge and tools to help identify and spot scams through Scam Jams, Fraud Fighter Summits, Fraud presentations and other educational events.

• Learn more about how AARP helps fight fraud.
• Learn more about consumer protection in Oregon.