WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today unveiled a new public service announcement (PSA), created in collaboration with AARP and the Oak Ridge Boys.

In announcing the launch of the video and accompanying social media campaign, Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt for the Department of Justice’s Civil Division issued the following statement:

“Fraudsters are targeting and stealing billions of dollars from unsuspecting Americans every year. In order to fight this epidemic, Americans must report fraud schemes and spread the word among their families and friends. I want to thank AARP’s Fraud Watch Network and the Oak Ridge Boys for working with us to fight this critical issue. Through increased awareness and reporting, the Department of Justice can continue to take swift action to end the victimization of vulnerable elderly Americans across the country.”

“Americans are targeted by fraudsters from all over the world,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores of the Northern District of Oklahoma. “The scams run by con artists can wreck the financial security of retired Americans. A threat to one’s hard earned savings is a threat to one’s liberty. I am proud to stand with AARP and the Oak Ridge Boys to educate and empower elder Americans to defend themselves against fraudsters.”

“Helping people spot the signs of a scam is key to helping them avoid becoming victims,” said Kathy Stokes, director of fraud prevention programs, AARP. “And encouraging people to report scam attempts and victimization will help others know what to look for, and it will help the good guys in their efforts to go after the bad guys.”

“The Oak Ridge Boys are honored to bring awareness to elder fraud and abuse. For too long people have taken advantage of our senior citizens, and we are teaming up with the Department of Justice and the AARP Fraud Watch Network to help you and your loved ones stay safe from scammers,” said Duane Allen of the Oak Ridge Boys.

"So happy to see the Department of Justice and AARP stepping up to address this problem of elder fraud abuse. We are honored to be stepping up with you. Everyone is susceptible via phone or online, but the elderly are often the targets and victims of identity thieves and scammers. The Oak Ridge Boys are honored to lend our name and image to this worthy cause,” said Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys.

If you or a family member, friend or colleague have been a victim of a fraud scheme, please report to www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork. Information about the Department of Justice’s Elder Fraud Initiative is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice. 

View the PSA here.

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About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation'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.