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Fraud Remains a Top Concern for Rhode Island Residents

AARP Rhode Island is mobilizing in communities across the state with free events and expert resources

AARP

Published April 08, 2026

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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 say 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.

“AARP is active in Rhode Island communities, where our Speakers Bureau presenters provide the tools and guidance that give our members and nonmembers better protection against fraud criminals for themselves and their loved ones,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor. “Criminals are persistent, and awareness alone won’t stop them. That’s why we’ve worked at the State House to pass legislation addressing gift card and crypto ATM fraud. Right now, we’re supporting bills in the House and Senate that would protect property owners from deed fraud.”

Throughout April, AARP Rhode Island is hosting local events, including “Fraud Fighting Fridays,” free, secure, on-site document shredding in nine cities and towns throughout the state, starting April 10 in Providence, as well as a series of Speakers Bureau fraud prevention presentations at the Providence East Side YMCA and Cranston YMCA. (Event details at www.aarp.org/RIEvents.)

Rhode Island was among the first of 22 states to pass legislation regulating cryptocurrency kiosks, which criminals use as payment methods in their scams.

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.

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