Fraud can happen to anyone. According to the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging 2019 Fraud Book, it is estimated that older Americans lose at least $2.9 billion per year to financial exploitation schemes and scams. Other groups pose estimates that are even higher, and many agree that fraud is under-reported.

To increase consumer knowledge on fraud and fraud prevention, the Trimble County Extension Office hosted two workshops: “A Bad Deal in Disguise: Common Scams” and “Treat Yourself to Safety: Red Flags and Avoiding Fraud” in the fall of 2019. Evaluations were collected after the first workshop, and a 12-week follow-up was mailed in January 2020. Educational emphasis was placed on:

• Understanding the tricks and tactics a con artist might use.
• Naming “red flag” promises.
• Knowing how to protect against fraud.
• Knowing where to report potential fraud.

Participants were surveyed following the class and 100 percent indicated they were able to understand the tricks and tactics a con artist might use; 89 percent felt confident in their ability to name at least two "red flag" promises; 100 percent now know two ways to protect themselves from fraud; and 100 percent can name at least one organization where you can report potential fraud. Of those who participated, 100 percent indicated they plan to reduce the number of offers received by joining a list or by hanging up/avoiding unknown callers and 100 percent plan to report potential fraud and scams.

As a result of the program, one participant noted plans to “be more careful around people and what they tell you.” Others plan to say “no” more often, check credit reports, use website resources, avoid phone calls and report fraud.  Seventy two percent of individuals indicated they had implemented strategies to avoid breaches in personal or financial security.  Specifically, 81% reduced offers by joining a list and 67% actively avoided unknown callers.   At least 85% of attendees gained knowledge on how to address scams, and specifically feel they are now able to protect their money from fraud.