Scams & Fraud

Get the latest info on fraud and scams

Fake government grant offers have become more prevalent during the Coronavirus global pandemic. Even though collecting cash sounds nice, anytime you receive an offer for “free money” that seems “too good to be true” you should go with your instinct and ignore it. Fake grant offers are scams designed to steal your money and personal information. Here are some tips to avoid government grant scams:

AARP Washington is offering Tip-Offs to Rip-Offs, interactive events that will feature resources from AARP, Nomorobo and local law enforcement agencies on robocall scams in cities across the state, including Bellingham, Olympia, Seattle, Spokane and Wenatchee.

The Federal Trade Commission’s 2020 fraud report showed a spike in reported scams in Oklahoma, driven in part by opportunists taking advantage of the COVID pandemic.

Tune in every other Friday for tips on stopping common frauds and scams.

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Fraudsters are offering older people purported miracle cures, preventive drugs and vaccine appointments—for a fee. These scams exploit potential victims’ anxiety about having to wait for a vaccination. The past year has heightened people’s isolation and made them more susceptible to such pitches.

AARP is fighting fraudsters by educating consumers with its Scam Jams, which feature officials such as the state attorney general and FBI experts.

The rollout of eagerly awaited COVID-19 vaccines is an opportunity for fraudsters, and AARP is urging older Wisconsinites to be vigilant.

On the third Friday of each month, AARP Kansas will offer virtual Fraud Watch Network presentations about how to identify and avoid frequent scams targeting Kansans.