WASHINGTON—New technologies that could completely replace the need for passwords. New filters that put an end to scammers and spammers calling your mobile device. New approaches by law enforcers that can lead to arrests of fraudsters. And 15 “golden rules” that any person can follow to best prevent fraud today and tomorrow. These are just some of the vital topics and advice stories in “How We Can Beat Fraud,” an 8-page special report on the best approaches now being pursued by companies, law enforcers and entrepreneurs to block fraud. Plus: the four most common phone frauds today, and how to detect and prevent them.

Learn how biometric security measures are growing more accurate, from fingerprints and voice recognition to your personal typing and mouse-movement patterns—and even your unique blood flow measures. Also discover how the Justice Department has recently cracked down on scammers, and how experts on the front lines recommend you stop fraud every time it calls.

Other stories in the April issue:

Your Health

• Sound Advice About Hearing Aids: 80 percent of people who would benefit from a hearing aid don’t use one, studies show. This expanded primer on the current state of hearing aids (and what to expect when over-the-counter versions finally hit the market in the next two years) gives all you need to know to make wise decisions and finally take action. Learn how hearing devices are getting smarter, smaller, and easier. At the same time, they do more than just improve sound: streaming audio, smartphone apps and rechargeable batteries are becoming the standard.

Your Money

• Travel Insurance in Plain English: Riders, waivers, disqualifying events—the terminology used in travel insurance agreements can be complicated. How do you figure out what to look for in travel insurance, or even if you need it at all? Take a look at our travel insurance guide to point you toward the coverage that works for you.
   
• Invest for Free (Or Nearly So): Brokerage services are offering low-cost mutual funds, or even mutual funds with zero cost—yes, zero-- as a way to bring in new customers. Personal finance expert Jane Bryant Quinn notes that an investment on a zero-fee fund can yield much higher returns than typical mutual funds, and offers advice for how to avoid expenses that may lower your returns on your investments.
   
• Springtime Savings: Everyone could use some cost-cutting tips when it comes to spring cleaning. Find out how to halve the amount of money you spend on sponges, prolong the lifespan of your wooden deck and replant your perennials for optimal growth.

Your Life

• Q&A with Melinda Gates: The cofounder of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has traveled the world and seen firsthand the challenges of women, particularly in third world economies. Learn about her quest to bring more resources and fairness to women, and what she believes the outcome could be if successful. Plus, an inside look into her life with Bill, and her personal priorities.

Your AARP

• Have Fun, Get Fit, Win a Trip: Last year, more than 82,000 people joined AARP’s Fit & Fun Health Challenge. The challenge is back this year, and participants will have a chance to win the grand prize: a spa weekend getaway for two. Wellness ambassador Denise Austin again encourages participants to walk at least 30 minutes per day for 8 weeks, beginning May 1 and ending June 30. Visit aarp.org/challenge to learn how to get started.

More information can be found at: http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/

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About AARP Bulletin
The definitive news source for AARP’s members, AARP Bulletin (http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/) reaches more than 23.5 million households each month in print, with additional news and in-depth coverage online. Covering health and health policy, Medicare, Social Security, consumer protection, personal finance, and AARP state and national news developments, AARP Bulletin delivers the story behind the key issues confronting 50+ America. The monthly consumer-oriented news publication has become a must-read for congressional lawmakers and Washington opinion leaders, and it provides AARP members with pertinent information they need to know.

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.