About
The AARP Fraud Watch NetworkTM is a free resource for all. With AARP as your partner, you’ll learn how to proactively spot scams, get guidance from our fraud specialists if you’ve been targeted, and feel more secure knowing that we advocate at the federal, state, and local levels to protect consumers and enforce the law.
Protecting consumers goes back to AARP’s founding. Learn more about our history.
What We Help You Do
Stay Informed
Knowledge gives you power over scams. The AARP Fraud Watch NetworkTM equips you with reliable, up-to-date insights, alerts and fraud prevention resources to help you spot and avoid scams and protect your loved ones. We even cover the latest scams in the news.
Find Support
If you've been targeted by scams or fraud, you are not alone. Our trained fraud specialists provide support and guidance on what to do next and how to avoid scams in the future. The AARP Fraud Helpline, 877-908-3360, is free and available to anyone. We also offer online support sessions for further emotional support.
Have a Voice
AARP fights for consumers by advocating for laws and regulations to stop scams and shut down fraud attempts. We also provide a voice to consumer concerns and help shape the public discussion on fraud.
Get Regular Updates on The Latest Scams
Sign up for free, biweekly Watchdog Alerts to have information on the latest scams delivered right to your email and phone.
Our Fraud Experts See Full Bios
Kathy Stokes
Director of Fraud Prevention, Fraud Watch Network
Amy Nofziger
Director of Victim Support, Fraud Watch Network
Paul Greenwood
External Speaker, Elder Abuse
Troy Broussard
Senior Advisor,
Veterans & Military Families Initiative External Speaker
AARP members make possible free resources like the Fraud Watch Network. Support our nonprofit, nonpartisan work that empowers people to choose how they live as they age by becoming a member today.
Highlights
TEDx Talk: AARP’s director of fraud prevention, Kathy Stokes, shares stories and offers ways we can reframe the shame that often accompanies becoming a victim to fraud and how we can all be more aware and supportive.
Nancy LeaMond, AARP’s chief advocacy and engagement officer, says that urgent action and a coordinated effort by law enforcement, regulators and policy makers are needed on consumer fraud.
AARP’s The Perfect ScamSM podcast won the “Best Use of a Podcast” award in the 2020 Shorty Social Good Awards, which it shared with CNN. Finalists included brands such as HBO and GoFundMe.
In the News
AARP Director of Victim Support Amy Nofziger appeared on TODAY to share tips on how to stop spam calls and texts, including using the technology already on our devices.
— 3/8/2023
Scripps News reports scammers are targeting Medicare recipients across the country, claiming that they need to update their Medicare information to receive a new card. AARP’s Kathy Stokes says “Medicare will never call you unless you initiate the conversation.”
— 3/6/2023
USA Today reports experts warn scammers are getting more sophisticated while “consumer protections remain limited.” AARP’s Kathy Stokes said while “education is a critical part of preventing fraud,” she “believes there needs to be a national response, possibly action from lawmakers.”
— 3/2/2023
Partners
The AARP Fraud Watch Network works with industry, federal regulators, law enforcement and other nonprofits to help deliver the message of fraud prevention. Current partners include:
