Scams & Fraud

The holiday deals have already begun, but buyer beware – not all of those great deals you see online are legit. Because if the online shopping season has started it means that online scam season has officially begun too.

In August of 2022 the Veterans Administration (VA) began the largest expansion of benefits in its history with the enactment of the PACT Act. The Act, which compensates military personnel and veterans for exposure to toxic chemicals has led to 4.5 million toxic screenings and the expansion of benefits to more than 400,000 individuals. It has also created an opportunity for criminal scammers.

Social media has become a dangerous marketplace. Scammers are great at creating slick ads and professional looking websites and for minimal cost they can force them into your feed.

Scammers are like viruses: they continually evolve in response to the latest news and trends. Here are two scam variations that experts have seen trending so far in 2023.

AARP Pennsylvania strongly urges Medicare beneficiaries to exercise extra caution during this year's Medicare Open Enrollment period, which runs from October 15 to December 7. A recent data breach involving a government contractor put an alarming number of Medicare beneficiaries at risk, heightening the importance of vigilance during a time already susceptible to fraudulent activities.

When we think about cybersecurity we may think about computers and smart phones. But the reality is everything from our TVs to thermostats to appliances are potentially vulnerable to hackers. In this new normal, online safety is a must so remember - smart devices need smart security.

It’s open enrollment season, which also means it’s Medicare fraud season. Eligible beneficiaries have until December 7th to shop for the best deal for their health care dollar. Unfortunately, some of the deals offered won’t be deals at all.

If you have a cell phone, you've probably noticed an increase in text messages from people you don't know.

The month of October was declared by Congress in 2004 to be Cybersecurity Awareness Month, During each October, the public and private sectors and tribal communities work together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. Here are four important steps to staying safe online.

This October is National Cyber Security month and AARP is focused on shining a light on the most prevalent online scams including celebrity impostors. Stars like Bruce Springsteen, Trace Adkins and Oprah Winfrey are among thousands of celebrities whose personas have been used by scammers online to solicit money from fans.