That is how Katie, 67, from Montana, found herself in a situation that escalated faster than she could have imagined. What began as an online message turned into violent threats backed by AI-generated videos. “I am a confident user of technology,” she told me. “But this went beyond anything I associated with fraud.”

Katie’s experience is not rare. I have seen similar situations unfold among people in my life. And the data confirms the threat: More than 40 percent of American adults have lost money to fraud or had their sensitive information stolen and misused, according to an AARP survey.

Fraud affects people across all income levels and backgrounds. It is driven by organized criminal networks using sophisticated tools. It has become a systemic threat—one AARP confronts every day through prevention, victim support, consumer protection and advocacy.

Because the consequences are devastating. Fraud can drain life savings and cause lasting emotional harm. It erodes trust, even in oneself. Many are left bearing shame for something not their fault.

Though fraud can strike quickly, the effects linger long after. That is why, at AARP, we emphasize a simple but powerful approach: Pause, reflect, protect. Creating space to slow down and reach out for help can interrupt even the most persuasive attempt.

But prevention is not enough. When fraud occurs, connection matters.

Lori, 57, from North Carolina, knows this firsthand. After experiencing a romance scam, she joined the AARP Fraud Victim Support Group. Speaking openly about what happened marked a turning point. Lori transformed that experience into advocacy, sharing her story on Capitol Hill to help strengthen laws and better protect others.

Janey, 66, and Bruce, 77, from Texas, called AARP’s Helpline after a tech-support scam convinced them to move their savings through a series of steps that felt official. “We thought we were protecting ourselves,” they told us. Our Fraud Watch Network volunteer helped them understand what happened and reassured them that they were not alone.

We know the effects of fraud rarely stop with one person. They ripple through families and communities, which is why our resources are designed to help everyone, whether you were targeted or are helping a loved one pick up the pieces.

We also advocate for stronger laws and enforcement to disrupt criminal networks, protect consumers and ensure fraud is treated with the seriousness it demands. We listen closely to people’s stories and carry them forward, into policy and prevention, because fraud cannot be addressed if it remains unspoken.

Katie, Lori, Janey and Bruce shared their experiences so others might spot the warning signs sooner, let go of shame and know they are not alone. Fraud is a crime. Speaking up is an act of strength. And when we acknowledge it, talk about it and look out for each other, we take back control.