Scams & Fraud

Minnesotans who have been defrauded now have a better chance of financial recovery, thanks to a new bipartisan law championed by AARP Minnesota. The Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund, the first of its kind in the nation, was signed into law in 2025 with strong bipartisan support. This innovative fund will help victims of fraud recover lost money—especially in cases where scammers are untraceable or bankrupt.

The August 21st Elder Justice Summit focused on financial exploitation of the 65+ community. This event was held on both St. Croix and St. Thomas, with a livestream connecting both AARP offices. The Elder Justice Summit was attended by Lt. Governor Tregenza Roach, Commissioner of Banking and Insurance, as well as representatives from First Bank, Oriental Bank, the St. Thomas Credit Union, Merchant Commercial Bank, Bank of St. Croix, Frederiksted Federal Credit Union, and financial specialists from Medicaid and SNAP from the Department of Human Services.

When filing a consumer complaint, be sure to verify who you are talking to.

Scammers succeed by creating an atmosphere of excitement. Learn how to protect yourself.

Cryptocurrency kiosks, may look like regular ATMs, but criminals can also use them as a fast, easy and hard-to-trace way to get access to victims’ cash.

Fake customer support numbers are everywhere online. Learn how to find the real ones and avoid giving info to scammers

After a storm or wildfire scammers offer fake repairs. Find out how to protect your home and avoid falling victim

Fraud and scams continue to affect communities across New York, with older adults often being targeted. This fall, AARP New York invites you to attend The Many Faces of Fraud and Scams: AARP’s Roadmap to Awareness and Action—a free, in-person workshop series focused on education, prevention, and community empowerment.

If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam!

Medicare scams spike each year during the open enrollment period from October through December. Scammers try to access your bank funds, steal your identity or file fraudulent claims using your Medicare account.