Protecting Our Community: AARP Virgin Islands’ Commitment to Anti-Fraud and Scam Awareness

Protecting Our Community: AARP Virgin Islands’ Commitment to

Anti-Fraud and Scam Awareness

As the State Director of AARP Virgin Islands, I am proud to share the significant strides we have made in our ongoing fight against fraud and scams. Our mission is to protect our community, especially our older residents, from the ever-evolving threats posed by scammers. Through education, advocacy, and support, we aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to safeguard themselves and their loved ones.

Rising Threats and Our Response

Fraud and scams are growing concerns that affect everyone, but older adults are particularly vulnerable. According to the most recent AARP Vital Voices survey, a significant percentage of Virgin Islanders aged 45 and older have reported being targeted by scams. The survey revealed that 65% of respondents had encountered fraudulent schemes, with 40% experiencing financial losses as a result¹. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for robust anti-fraud initiatives.

In response, AARP Virgin Islands has intensified its efforts to combat these threats. Our national AARP Fraud Watch Network is a cornerstone of our strategy, offering a wealth of resources to help individuals recognize and avoid scams. This free service provides timely alerts, prevention tips, and access to a dedicated fraud helpline. By staying informed and vigilant, our community can better protect itself from deceitful tactics.

Educational Outreach and Community Engagement

Education is a powerful tool in the fight against fraud. AARP Virgin Islands has conducted numerous educational sessions, both in-person and virtually, to raise awareness about common scams and how to avoid them. These sessions have been particularly effective in reaching older adults who may not be as familiar with digital threats.

One of our key initiatives is the “Fraud Prevention Awareness Series,” which includes workshops, webinars, and community events. These programs are designed to educate participants on the latest scam tactics and provide practical advice on how to stay safe. By fostering a culture of awareness and vigilance, we can collectively reduce the impact of fraud on our community.

On March 20^th, in collaboration with the Federal Trade Commission, AARP Virgin Islands will launch our latest free Lunch and Learn series. This is a virtual series, designed to introduce Virgin Islanders across the Territory to practical tips and tools to recognize and prevent scams, safeguard their personal information, and protect their financial well-being. All are welcome to register here for this free workshop.

Advocacy and Legislative Efforts

In addition to education, AARP Virgin Islands is actively involved in advocating for stronger consumer protections. We work closely with lawmakers, the Department of Justice, and local community partners to push for legislation that enhances protections for vulnerable residents. Our advocacy efforts have recently focused on the new elder abuse amendment currently under consideration in the legislature.

The proposed amendment aims to strengthen existing laws and introduce new measures to combat elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. The amendment includes several critical measures including the creation of the Virgin Islands’ first adult abuse registry, a mandate to support fraud prevention and awareness training for law enforcement officers, and the establishment of a multi-disciplinary adult protection team to provide sharing of best practices to combat elder abuse in the Virgin Islands. This legislation is a critical step forward in ensuring that our older residents are protected from harm.

By supporting this amendment, we are advocating for a safer and more secure environment for all. To date, we have made substantial progress in advocating for the amendment. In fact, we have secured a sponsoring Senator to introduce this legislation. In addition, we are urging the public to call their elected officials and ask them to support the bill once it is introduced in the 36th Legislature.

Support and Resources for Victims

Despite our best efforts, some individuals may still fall victim to scams. AARP Virgin Islands is committed to providing support and resources to those affected. Our AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline offers guidance and assistance to victims, helping them navigate the aftermath of a scam. Additionally, our online support sessions connect individuals with experts and others who have faced similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and shared resilience.

We also encourage residents to report scams and fraudulent activities to the appropriate authorities. By doing so, we can help prevent others from becoming victims and contribute to the broader effort to combat fraud.

Looking Ahead

As we continue our work, we remain dedicated to adapting our strategies to address emerging threats. The landscape of fraud is constantly changing, and we must stay ahead of scammers by leveraging new technologies and innovative approaches. Our commitment to protecting our community is unwavering, and we will continue to advocate for stronger protections, provide essential resources, and educate our residents.

AARP Virgin Islands is proud of the progress we have made in our anti-fraud and scam awareness efforts. However, there is still much work to be done. We urge all Virgin Islanders to stay informed, remain vigilant, and support our initiatives. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient community where everyone can live with confidence and peace of mind.

Troy De Chabert-Schuster
AARP Virgin Islands State Director