WASHINGTON, DC — The AARP Fraud Watch Network brings fraud-fighting efforts to consumers nationwide in “Operation: Stop Scams” -- a month-long series of events in communities coast-to-coast, as AARP state organizations sponsor more than 150 free local events in nearly every state and the District of Columbia from Friday, April 14, through Tuesday, May 16, 2017. 

Events include: paper-shredding events, fraud education programs – popularly referred to as “scam jams,” Fraud Watch Network background presentations, tele-town halls and phone bank call-out sessions to warn consumers of the latest scams.  Consumers can find their closest local event at www.aarp.org/OperationStopScams.

“Many Americans clear out and discard their obsolete financial documents at the end of the tax-filing season in April.  Our shredding events in dozens of communities provide a convenient and safe way for people to destroy this sensitive paperwork,” said Nancy LeaMond chief advocacy and engagement officer, AARP.  “April also brings the personal finance awareness activities of Money Smart Week, so we’re excited to do our part with events to teach consumers to be smart about avoiding fraud and scams.”

Money Smart Week, April 22-29, is a collaborative between thousands of organizations across the United States that offer financial education programs, classes and activities. 

Examples of AARP “Operation: Stop Scams” events range from a financial forum in Louisville, Ky.; to a “Scam Jam” in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; to a Clinton Township, Mich., presentation by AARP Fraud Watch Network Ambassador Frank Abagnale.  Paper-shredding events total more than 100.  Some 250 tons of sensitive documents were destroyed during a similar AARP National “Shred Fest” in 2016.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network launched in 2013 as a free resource for people of all ages.  The website provides information about fraud and scams, prevention tips from experts, an interactive scam-tracking map, fun educational quizzes, and video presentations featuring Fraud Watch Network Ambassador Frank Abagnale.  Users may sign up for “Watchdog Alert” emails that deliver breaking scam information, or call a free helpline at 877-908-3360 to speak with volunteers trained in fraud counseling.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name.  As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the world’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.