Don't Get Tricked by a Scammer! Learn How to Outsmart them at our Scam Jam

Cyber criminal with laptop stealing user personal data.
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Fraud is on the rise across the country, and New Mexico is no exception. Criminals are becoming more sophisticated and clever at trying to trick you out of your hard-earned money.

 AARP New Mexico is hosting a free Scam Jam and fraud-related resource fair in Albuquerque, Thursday, Oct. 29th, featuring organizations and experts, who can help keep you and your finances safe from fraud and scams. This close to Halloween, it will have a spooky theme too!

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“This event is an opportunity to engage with different organizations and agencies that specialize in fraud prevention, giving you the information, tools and resources you need to stay one step ahead of these criminals,” said Othiamba Umi, AARP New Mexico Advocacy Director.

“Keeping up with the latest scams can be exhausting but learning the warning signs most scams have in common can help you stay safer,” Umi said.

“The three most common red flags are: 1.) the contact, either by phone or email, is unexpected; 2.) the contact’s message causes a surge of emotion, so that you aren’t thinking clearly and 3.) uses a sense of urgency. If you don’t do this immediately, something bad will happen,” he said.

When those three things happen collectively, the AARP Fraud Watch Network urges you to pause; reflect on what the contact is saying and asking of you and then ask yourself, does this make sense or sound too good to be true; and if not, protect your money.

“It sounds easy enough when you stop to think about it, but criminals use sophisticated tactics and manipulation to override your nervous system so that you aren’t thinking straight. It helps to know these steps ahead of time to help clear your head and really think about what they are saying and asking you to do,” Umi said.

“These are the kinds of tools and information our community partners will be sharing at the Scam Jam,” he said.

In addition to the resource fair, there will be presentations from experts about current and emerging scams, how to spot red flags, and practical steps to protect your money. 

This Resource Fair will feature community partners and agencies, including law enforcement, banking and consumer protection, among others. Attendees will be able to meet directly with participating groups, ask questions, pick up helpful materials, and learn about resources available to help prevent scams and what to do if you become a victim.

The event is Thursday, Oct. 29th, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CNM Workforce Training Center (WTC), 5600 Eagle Rock Ave. NE, Albuquerque, 87113.

This event is for everyone and open to the public. Light refreshments and lunch will be provided. Space is limited. To register visit: https://events.aarp.org/scamjam2026



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