AARP Illinois Volunteers Teach Neighbors How to Spot Scams

AARP Illinois is running a free online series called Fraud Fighting Fraudlettes to help people spot scams. It is also building a statewide network of volunteers, called Fraud Fighters, who pass that knowledge on to the people around them. Three sessions remain this year.

What the series offers

The hosts are AARP Illinois fraud experts Courtney Hedderman and Annetta Works Salley. AARP describes the talks as straightforward fraud-prevention information based on real-world experience. Each session is held virtually at 10 a.m. Central Time. The series is free, and each one is meant to offer timely tips, trusted resources and information people can use right away.

The Fraud Fighters network

The volunteer effort is aimed at people who want to help educate and protect their friends, families, neighbors and communities. AARP says the campaign gives Fraud Fighters tools, information and ongoing support. The idea is that they act as trusted messengers. A warning from someone you know often lands better than one from a stranger.

AARP is a nonprofit that works on issues facing adults 50 and older. Knowing common scam tactics ahead of time can protect your savings. It can also help you warn older relatives and friends.

What is not clear

• The exact dates and topics of the three remaining sessions were not included in the material.
• How to sign up, and how many Fraud Fighters have joined so far, was not stated.
• It is unclear whether the series continues after this year.