People throughout our community have been taken advantage of by fraud. Scammers often target trusted relationships, making awareness and quick action essential.

Fraud can be stopped when we know the warning signs and look out for each other. Talking openly, reporting quickly, and checking in with family—especially our elders—are powerful ways to keep scams from spreading.

Here’s the good news: by leaning on our community resources, we can protect each other and prevent fraud before it takes hold.

• Phone and tech scams – Fake calls from “banks,” “the IRS,” or “tech support.”
• Romance scams – Online relationships used to trick people into sending money.
• Investment scams – “Too good to be true” offers promising quick returns.
• Identity theft – Using stolen personal information to open credit cards or loans.

Older adults are especially at risk, but scams affect people of all ages. Fraud isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s the result of criminals using sophisticated tricks. Across the world, scams cost victims billions of dollars each year. If it happens to you, don’t feel ashamed — it happens to people from every walk of life. The best defense is awareness and community vigilance.