Get started with Staying Sharp. Follow this simple, flexible roadmap to learn about brain health.

Content starts here

AARP Fraud Prevention Month Brings Free Events to Vermont

Laura McDonough,

AARP Vermont

Published April 03, 2026

Getty Images

AARP Fraud Prevention Month Brings Free Events to Vermont

Fraud continues to threaten families across the country — and here in Vermont, the impact is real.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers in Vermont reported $8.1 million in fraud losses between January and September 2025, with the most common scams being imposter, online shopping, and internet service scams. However, many fraud cases go unreported, meaning the actual amount stolen could be much higher.

In response, AARP is taking action this April during Fraud Prevention Month, bringing free in-person and virtual events, workshops, and fraud-prevention resources directly to communities across Vermont.

FREE LOCAL EVENTS IN VERMONT:

Stay Scam-Free in the Digital World

Perfect for anyone who uses email, social media, or shops online—don’t miss this chance to boost your digital safety skills!

Date: April 2, 2026

Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. EST

Location: Zoom

View details

Fraud on Tap: Scam-Smart Trivia Night

Through quick, lighthearted questions and small prizes, this session will make learning essential fraud‑prevention skills both fun and memorable—so you can better protect yourself and your loved ones.

Date: April 9, 2026

Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. EST

Location: Montpelier

View details

Cyber Safety for Everyday Life

In today’s fast paced online world, protecting your personal information isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Date: April 9, 2026

Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. EST

Location: Jericho

Most Popular

View details

ID Theft: Catch the Red Flags

We’ll cover common indicators of identity theft, what to do if you notice them, and simple steps to strengthen your security.

Date: April 14, 2026

Time: 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. EST

Location: Woodstock

View details

Smart Tips to Keep Scammers Away

Learn how to protect yourself from the growing number of scams targeting consumers today.

Date: April 16, 2026

Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. EST

Location: Zoom

View details

Defend Against Scams: Stay Informed

Representatives from the Vermont Attorney General’s office will kick off the event with a keynote presentation on current fraud issues. Our in-house volunteer expert, Elliott Greenblott, will share valuable insights.

Date: April 28, 2026

Time: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. EST

Location: South Burlington

View details

Nationwide Events You Can Join from Anywhere

In addition to local programming, AARP is hosting several free virtual events.

Identify Fraud: What You Need to Know

Identity fraud is rising, but you can fight back! Get expert tips and ask your questions live during this upbeat virtual session.

Date: Wednesday, April 15

Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. ET

View Details

Real Solutions: Protecting Yourself from Fraud

Seeing more scams and unsure what to watch for? We’re hosting a nationwide tele-town hall to talk through common red flags and simple, practical solutions. Spanish-language access available.

Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026

Time: 1 – 2 p.m. ET

View Details

AARP ADVOCACY: PROTECTING CONSUMERS FROM CRYPTO KIOSK FRAUD

In addition to in-person and virtual events, AARP is advocating for policy solutions to protect consumers from crypto kiosk fraud — one of the fastest-growing scam tactics in the country.

Criminals increasingly direct victims to cryptocurrency kiosks (sometimes called Bitcoin ATMs), where money can be transferred quickly and is often difficult to recover.

AARP is addressing this issue from multiple angles:

Empowering people with information about crypto kiosk scams and what to do if they are targeted
Urging policymakers to establish practical safeguards for consumers
Supporting fraud victims through the AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline and fraud victim support program

AARP Vermont is among more than a dozen states that recently passed legislation regulating cryptocurrency kiosks, which criminals use as payment methods in their scams. Vermont passed its first law regulating cryptocurrency kiosks in 2024, with AARP’s support. In 2025, AARP helped secure refund provisions for victims of crypto kiosk fraud. A ban on new kiosk licenses is set to expire in 2026, and unregulated kiosks continue to be a tool for scammers.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to target unsuspecting consumers. While adults 50-plus are frequently targeted, fraud affects every generation.

AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource for all to help you 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.

Fraud Prevention Month helps ensure that every Vermonter has access to reliable information and trusted resources.

“Fraud prevention is about action,” said Laura McDonough, AARP Vermont Director of Communications.

“When AARP shows up in communities with trusted tools and local events, we’re helping neighbors protect themselves and each other.”

TAKE ACTION:

Attend a local event. Join virtually. Share what you learn with friends and family. Protect yourself — and your community. Learn more: aarp.org/FraudSafety.

Join the fight against fraud—from anywhere. Become an AARP Digital Fraud Fighter and help your friends and family spot and avoid scams.

MORE RESOURCES

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline: Get guidance from trained fraud specialists: Call 877-908-3360 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET.

Subscribe to Watchdog Alerts: Stay on top of the latest scams by subscribing to AARP's free bi-weekly newsletter by email and text.

AARP Scam-Tracking Map: See scams occurring near you or report one if you’ve been targeted.

E-Learning — Effective Ways to Protect Yourself From Scams: This free course explains how to spot warning signs, disengage from scammers and take action if you're a target.