AARP Scam Alerts for August
In 2023, post-disaster fraud cost Americans over $9.3 billion, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). With hurricane and wildfire season in full swing, it’s important to remind ourselves that when the clouds roll out and the smoke clears, criminal scammers tend to move in.
Following extreme weather events, criminals impersonate government, utility, and insurance workers. They may show up at your door or call with promises of federal grants, priority repairs, or faster claim processing in exchange for a fee or up-front deposit.
While actual Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) agents may visit your home to assist, they will never ask for payment and will carry a government-issued laminated photo badge. A FEMA shirt or jacket is NOT proof of identity.
Be cautious of door-to-door insurance and utility solicitations promising special or expedited assistance. Even if the offer appears genuine, ask for more information, and never give money on the spot. You should also contact your insurance or utility company through pre-established channels to confirm that an offer is legitimate.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
AARP Fraud Watch Network™ is a free resource for all. Learn how to proactively spot scams or get guidance if you’ve been targeted. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call our dedicated helpline to speak to a fraud specialist at 877-908-3360.
Celebrity Impostor AI Scams MORE RESOURCES LINK
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has captured the world's attention, but it has also captured the attention of criminal scammers. One area where AI scams are particularly dangerous is celebrity impostor scams.
For many years, criminals have impersonated celebrities online to steal from fans. Fake celebrity profiles offer fans personal connection, investment opportunities, or the chance to support favorite charities.
AI has allowed criminals to make these scams more realistic than ever with “deepfake” videos. With this technology, criminals can create videos where it looks and sounds like the celebrity is speaking, but it is in fact completely computer generated. Criminal scammers have used this technology for anything from fake product endorsements to promotions for bogus VIP ticket sales.
Posting on a celebrity's social media account might be exciting, but it could put you at risk of this impostor scam. In whatever way you choose to enjoy your favorite celebs, do so recognizing that an opportunity to connect with them personally is likely a scam.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
AARP Fraud Watch Network™ is a free resource for all. Learn how to proactively spot scams or get guidance if you’ve been targeted. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call our dedicated helpline to speak to a fraud specialist at 877-908-3360.
Gold Bar Scams MORE RESOURCES LINK
Olympic athletes aren't the only ones after gold this summer. Criminal scammers are increasingly trying to steal your savings through gold bar schemes.
Criminals may impersonate representatives from the government to convince you that your bank account is compromised. They'll instruct you to withdraw your money and convert it into gold, before sending a “courier” to collect the bars for safe storage. However, once your gold is picked up, they’ll cut off contact and disappear. Thankfully, there are some warning signs of gold bar schemes.
No legitimate entity is going to ask you to buy gold. In addition, you should always be very weary if someone suggests that you must move your money to make it safe. While the involvement of couriers in gold bar scams may make it appear more legitimate, it’s another red flag.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
AARP Fraud Watch Network™ is a free resource for all. Learn how to proactively spot scams or get guidance if you’ve been targeted. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call our dedicated helpline to speak to a fraud specialist at 877-908-3360.
AARP Victim Support Group Promotion MORE RESOURCES LINK
Have you been affected by a scam? Know that you are not alone.
AARP Fraud Watch Network™ offers free emotional support sessions for people affected by fraud. Trained peer facilitators conduct hour-long small group online sessions.You can join by computer, tablet, or smartphone. Discussions are confidential. You are welcome to attend one session or several – it's your choice.
Experiencing a scam can be devastating, but it doesn't have to define you. Sign up for a session at aarp.org/fraudsupport and take an important step toward emotional recovery.
Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.
AARP Fraud Watch Network™ is a free resource for all. Learn how to proactively spot scams or get guidance if you’ve been targeted. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call our dedicated helpline to speak to a fraud specialist at 877-908-3360.