The New Canaan Men’s Club will tackle the rise of identity theft and scams targeting seniors. At the upcoming meeting, Connecticut AARP representatives John Wilson and L. Stableford will deliver a presentation titled “Inside the Criminal Mind,” focusing on the methods used by fraudsters and the steps seniors can take to protect themselves.
The meeting will be held today at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 111 Oenoke Ridge. The AARP presentation is slated to start around 10:40 a.m., following the club’s regular business. Wilson and Stableford’s talk will offer an interactive approach, featuring actual footage of scammers in action and providing practical advice to help seniors avoid being exploited. The event is part of the AARP Fraud Watch Network, a program dedicated to educating people about scams and promoting fraud prevention strategies.
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
Fraud targeting older adults has surged in recent years, with financial losses reaching alarming levels. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), seniors reported losing over $1 billion to fraud in 2023, a figure that experts believe is underestimated due to unreported cases. The Fraud Watch Network provides tools and resources aimed at raising awareness about common scams. It also educates individuals about identity theft and advises on actions to take if one falls victim to such activities.
The session will highlight prevalent scams that frequently target seniors, including:
Phishing Scams: Fraudsters use fake emails or messages designed to appear legitimate to trick individuals into revealing personal information such as Social Security numbers, credit card details, or passwords.
Robocall Fraud: Automated calls often promise unrealistic rewards or demand immediate action regarding “urgent” matters such as unpaid taxes or account security breaches.
Grandparent Scams: A con artist poses as a grandchild or other relative in distress, claiming to need immediate financial assistance.
Investment Fraud: These schemes often promise guaranteed returns or “risk-free” investment opportunities, which are often too good to be true.
Wilson and Stableford will also provide specific guidance on protecting personal information, recognizing warning signs, and responding to potential fraud attempts.
AARP has been at the forefront of advocating for stronger consumer protections, lobbying for legislative changes to enhance penalties for those who target vulnerable populations. The AARP outreach includes a helpline, free online resources, and a scam-tracking map.
The New Canaan Men’s Club welcomes new members aged 55 and above. The group, which meets weekly, offers a variety of activities and events that promote camaraderie, lifelong learning, and community service. Those interested in joining can reach out via email at ncmens@ncmens.info for additional information.
With the upcoming presentation by Wilson and Stableford, the Men’s Club is taking a proactive step toward educating its members about the dangers of fraud and empowering them with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect themselves. This event not only aims to increase awareness but also to foster a community that can support each other in recognizing and avoiding fraudulent schemes.
By engaging directly with seniors, AARP’s representatives aim to reduce the likelihood of financial loss and the emotional distress that often accompanies falling victim to scams. The event underscores the importance of vigilance and community involvement in safeguarding against an increasingly sophisticated criminal landscape.
