(KMAland) — AARP Nebraska is hosting a series of events across the state to help curb the rising rate of fraud.
Combating fraud and other scams has long been a priority for AARP, and the organization is now taking the next step. Recent data from the Federal Trade Commission shows that Americans lost at least $195 billion to fraud and related financial scams last year.
Jess Kinser, AARP Nebraska’s associate state director for communications, said an event in Grand Island on April 11 will focus on helping veterans protect themselves from financial fraud, as the military community remains one of the most frequently targeted groups by scammers.
“And they lose more, on average, than their civilian counterparts,” he said, “because scammers like to employ a vet-focused twist on impersonation scams, investment fraud and more.”
Along with the Grand Island event, AARP Nebraska will also host programs in Omaha, North Omaha, and Lincoln throughout April.
Kinser said the tactics scammers use make Nebraska’s veterans particularly vulnerable.
“These criminals will frequently impersonate the VA,” he said. “They often threaten to cut off benefits if you don’t provide sensitive personal information or pay bogus fees, and they may also contact you about investment opportunities with low fees or special offers just for veterans.”
Through its Fraud Watch Network, AARP has also developed an online tool that tracks scams in real time, along with additional resources to help people identify and report fraud.
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