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Fraud Remains a Top Concern for New Jersey Residents, New AARP Research Shows

During AARP Fraud Prevention Month this April, AARP New Jersey is mobilizing communities across the garden state with free events and expert resources to help residents protect themselves.

AARP

Published April 13, 2026

a woman wearing a tshirt that has the words fraud fighter written on it

AARP

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ - New AARP research shows fraud is a widespread and growing concern. Nearly 4 in 10 U.S. adults—about 103 million people—have already experienced fraud, and an estimated 159 million are worried about becoming victims. A little under one-third (30%) of adults says their biggest fear is being targeted themselves, followed by losing money with no way to recover it (21%) and seeing a loved one victimized (15%). These concerns highlight both the financial and emotional toll of these crimes and reflect how pervasive and personal the threat has become.

“Criminals are persistent, and awareness alone won’t stop them,” said Chris Widelo, AARP New Jersey State Director. “That’s why AARP is active in New Jersey communities—providing practical tools, trusted guidance, and support so people can better protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Throughout April, AARP New Jersey is hosting local events, including:

Community Shred Days offering safe, on-site document shredding on
- Saturday, 4/25 in Perth Amboy
- Saturday, 4/25 in Montclair
- Wednesday, 4/29 in Newark
Educational workshops on the latest fraud tactics on
- Wednesday, 4/29 in Newark
- Thursday, 4/30 in Livingston
- Thursday, 4/30 in Somerset
Virtual events and expert-led conversations for residents across New Jersey on Monday, 4/20 and 4/27
A special AARP Live Fraud Prevention broadcast and online stream
Local Tele-Town Halls connecting households for a live Q&A with fraud experts on Wednesday, 4/22

The report also finds that nine in ten Americans agree that fraud can happen to anyone. One in six adults say they answer calls (11%) or respond to texts (5%) from unknown contacts and roughly half download free apps and take online quizzes on social media that can expose personal data. Gaps in digital security also persist, including password reuse, limited use of private virtual networks on public Wi-Fi, and low adoption of multifactor authentication.

AARP Fraud Watch Network provides free tools and support to help people spot and avoid fraud, including:

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline (877-908-3360) - Free guidance from trained fraud specialists, available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET.
Watchdog Alerts- A free bi-weekly email and text newsletter covering the latest fraud trends.
Scam-Tracking Map - See fraud occurring near you or report an incident.

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To find local events or learn more about AARP Fraud Prevention Month, visit aarp.org/localfraudevents

About the AARP Fraud Watch Network
Launched in 2013, the AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource for people of all ages. Consumers can sign up for Watchdog Alerts by email or text, call the free helpline at 877-908-3360 to report scams or seek support, and access tools to track scams nationwide. The program also provides expert insights, prevention tips, and education to help individuals safeguard their finances and identities.

About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the 125 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest-circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPLatino and @AARPadvocates on social media.