The WFEA Morning Update

April ’26 Roundtable: Understanding and Defeating Fraud Crime

Photo: AARP

April ’26 Roundtable: Understanding and Defeating Fraud Crime

WFEA April Roundtable with AARP: Understanding and Defeating Fraud Crime

“Among the more than 3 million Americans who lost money to scammers in 2025, older adults lost the most, according to newly released numbers from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). And the losses are astronomical: a record $15.9 billion was reported to be stolen through scams and fraud last year, up 27% from $12.5 billion in 2024.”

The overall cost of these crimes continues to skyrocket: Just five years ago, in 2020, Americans lost far less, $3.5 billion.

Panelist:

  • Christina FitzPatrick, AARP NH State Director
  • Pamela Dube, AARP NH Associate State Director of Communications
  • Mary Roberge, AARP NH Fraud Fighter Volunteer

We explore the common types of fraud, their causes, and who is affected. We discuss warning signs, tips to help avoid becoming a victim, and what to do if you or someone you know falls victim to fraud schemes.

Valuable AAFP Fraud Fighting Resources:
The AARP Fraud Helpline number is 877-908-3360
AARP Fraud Victim Support Group at: aarp.org/fraudsupport
Fraud watch: aarp.org/fraudwatch

Recent Headlines

16 hours ago in National

A violent tornado tears through Oklahoma town, damaging 40 homes but sparing lives

Raeann Hunt scrambled to her cellar as a tornado bore down on her Oklahoma community. "It is headed right for us," she recalled thinking, as she peeked outside, unable to contain her curiosity.

23 hours ago in National

US soldier charged with using classified intel to win $400K Polymarket bet on Maduro raid

A U.S. special forces soldier involved in the military operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has been charged with using classified information about the mission to win more than $400,000 in an online betting market, federal officials announced Thursday.

2 days ago in National, Trending

Trump reclassifies state-licensed medical marijuana as a less-dangerous drug in a historic shift

President Donald Trump's acting attorney general on Thursday signed an order reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana as a less-dangerous drug, a major policy shift long sought by advocates who said cannabis should never have been treated like heroin by the federal government.

3 days ago in National

Rep. David Scott, a Georgia Democrat seeking his 13th term in Congress, dies at age 80

U.S. Rep. David Scott, a Georgia Democrat and the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, has died. He was 80.

3 days ago in National

Inside the Kennedy Center as it prepares for a 2-year renovation

Away from the political controversy that has consumed the iconic performing arts venue for the better part of President Donald Trump's second term, Matt Floca, the Kennedy Center's new executive director and chief operating officer, guided a group of journalists through the building Wednesday.