Podcasts

April ’26 Roundtable: Understanding and Defeating Fraud Crime

FILE - In this April 3, 2013 photo, Mike Caldwell, a 35-year-old software engineer, holds a 25 Bitcoin token at his shop in Sandy, Utah. Bitcoin is an online currency that allows people to make one-to-one transactions, buy goods and services and exchange money across borders without involving banks, credit card issuers or other third parties. Thailand’s cabinet has agreed to draft a law to regulate cryptocurrency trading, seeking to tax the largely unregulated market. Government spokesman Nathporn Chatusripitak said Tuesday the Ministry of Finance also proposed the new regulations to help prevent use of digital currencies in money laundering and fraud. Photo: Associated Press/AP Photo/Rick Bowmer

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

 

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