Podcasts

FILE - Bitcoin tokens are seen on April 3, 2013, in Sandy, Utah. Photo: Associated Press/AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File

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

4 days ago in National

Judge orders White House to restore access to CNN, MS NOW and Politico. Reporters still blocked

A federal judge temporarily blocked President Donald Trump's ban of three news outlets from the White House, ordering early Thursday that CNN, MS NOW and Politico must have their access restored. Reporters from all three outlets, however, said they remained blocked a few hours after the ruling.

6 days ago in National

California farmers are struggling to sell grapes as demand for wine drops

It's harvest time in California wine country, but many growers are struggling to sell their grapes as changing drinking habits have caused demand to plunge. The decline is forcing some growers to tear out vineyards that their families have grown for generations.

1 week ago in National, Trending

Early voting begins in US midterm elections that could flip control of Congress

In-person voting for this year's midterm elections began Friday, ushering in the final six weeks for Americans to decide which party they trust to lead Congress through a cost-of-living crisis, a prolonged war in Iran and other pressing issues.

2 weeks ago in National, Trending

US marks 25 years since the Sept. 11 attacks

Americans are commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11, remembering the shock, the dead and the sweeping consequences of the al-Qaida attacks on symbols of U.S. might and prosperity.

3 weeks ago in National, Trending

Anthropic researcher resigns with warning about the dangers of AI development

An Anthropic researcher said he is resigning from the company over concerns the artificial intelligence firm and its competitors are not acting responsibly in AI development, echoing concerns raised inside and outside of the industry about the technology's potential to elude human control.