Scam Alerts
Mail Theft, Check Washing on the Rise, USPS Warns
Learn how to keep your payments safe as thieves grow more brazen
2 Scams to Watch For During Tax Season
How to protect yourself — and recover — from preparer fraud and identity theft
Americans Lost Record-Breaking $8.8 Billion to Scams
In 2022 the cost of investment schemes, impostor scams and other fraud skyrocketed
Money Can Be Stolen From Your Bank Account
Customers need to be vigilant as thefts from personal accounts become more common
7 Tips for Avoiding Fraud When Donating to Charities
Criminals may take advantage of your generosity and steal your cash
7 Top Scams to Watch Out for in 2023
Criminals are quick to exploit current events and add new twists to well-known ruses
Why You Should Think Twice Before Taking an Online Quiz
Your answers to ‘fun’ personal questions can help criminals steal your identity
Watch Out for a COLA Twist on Social Security Scams
Scammers seek sensitive data to ‘activate’ benefit hike
Fraud Fighting
Exclusive: Attorney General Garland Vows to Fight Scams
The AG tells AARP how the DOJ is working to stop ‘pernicious’ fraud schemes against older Americans
How Timeshare Exit Scams Work and How to Avoid Them
Scammers pretend to help owners get out of their contracts while taking their cash
7 Tactics Criminals Use to Perpetrate Fraud
Scammers have learned how to manipulate people’s emotions and take advantage of their trust in others
Former NASA Engineer Gets Even With Scammers
Mark Rober discusses the 'glitterbomb package' and other creative ways he gets back at fraudsters
Know When Your Facebook Friend is a Real Phony
How to protect yourself and spot impostors on Messenger, Instagram
Help Your Teen Avoid Online Scams and Identity Theft
Criminals are targeting kids with fake shopping sites, scholarship offers, sextortion and more
AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline: 1-877-908-3360
Our toll-free service is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET
Victim Support
Let’s Stop Blaming Scam Victims, AARP Report Says
Advocates call for a change in how we talk and think about financial fraud
Many Scam Victims Struggle With Mental Health
Experiencing fraud can often be both financially and emotionally devastating
Elder Fraud
Tech Tools to Help Guard Against Elder Financial Abuse
Websites and firms that can flag suspicious behavior
The Legal Consequences of Elder Fraud Can Be Steep
Scams are on the rise, but here are ways to fight back
More on Fraud
Should You Pay for Antivirus Software? Experts Say No
A device’s built-in security is often enough, but stay on top of updates, passwords
Con Artists Stole Over $400M from Military Community
Veterans likely among the most targeted group in the country
9 Must-Listen Podcasts About Scams and Con Artists
Find eye-opening true-crime stories and tips for avoiding fraud