AARP Watchdog Alerts

AARP Watchdog Alert - AI Brings a New Twist to Fraud

This is another article from the AARP Watchdog Alert Network.

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"One of the reasons fraud criminals remain relevant is their use of technology. They embrace emerging technologies because they know it’s a new way to steal money and information. These days that is happening in the world of artificial intelligence—commonly known as AI. While this raises the fraud threat to new heights, we can bring our defenses to new heights, too."

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AARP Watchdog Alert - Natural Disaster Season Is Here and So Are Scammers

An AARP Watchdog Alert -

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"Whether it's tornadoes or floods, wildfires or hurricanes, it seems like it's always natural disaster season—which means it's always a good time for scammers to try and rip people off. Following extreme weather events, dubious contractors and outright scammers descend on affected communities, offering quick, cheap fixes. While some reputable contractors solicit door-to-door, many knockers are running scams. Here's how to be sure you avoid the damage to your wallet these criminals can cause."

AARP Watchdog Alert - The Perils of Time-Share Resale Offers

Another article from the AARP Watchdog Alert Newtwork

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"Across the country, thousands of people are looking to unload a time-share property — a process that can be difficult. Enter bad actors who promise they can help. Just last year, the Federal Trade Commission and the State of Wisconsin filed a suit against a group of “time-share exit” companies that collected $90 million for services they never provided. Here’s how to avoid time-share resale traps."

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AARP Watchdog Alert - Don't Lose Money To Weight Loss Scams

Another article in the AARP Watchdog Alert series on the AARP Fraud Network. You can subscribe to this email series and stay up to date on the latest frauds and scams.

"Summer has finally arrived, but the beginning of beach season inevitably brings weight loss scams with it. Criminals take advantage of the season to offer bogus solutions for losing weight or getting in shape."

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AARP Watchdog Alert - Navigating the Gift Card Minefield

Another alert from the AARP Watchdog Alert system. You can subscribe to receive this useful information.

"Gift cards have become a standard part of the modern shopping experience. But inside that colorful card kiosk could be a minefield. Here’s what you need to know before purchasing one.Gift card sales rose from $130 billion in 2015 to $173 billion in 2021, and while they are popular with consumers, they are also popular with criminals because they can be purchased anonymously and redeemed remotely.There are two typical scams involving gift cards: someone buys a gift card only to later find that it has no balance on it; and someone is instructed to purchase gift cards and share the numbers as a form of payment."

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AARP Watchdog Alert - Student Loan News Brings Student Loan Scams

Another useful alert from the AARP Watchdog Alert System. You can subscribe to receive these useful alerts.

"If there is one constant in the criminal world, it's that scammers follow the news. Student loan forgiveness has been the focus of recent headlines, which has given scammers room for fraud related to student loans. Read on for tips to avoid the traps."

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AARP Watchdog Alert - Fraud Continues Meteoric Rise

Another email alert from the AARP Watchdog Alert system. You can subscribe to this service.

"The numbers are in, and they aren't good. The Federal Trade Commission has issued its data book on fraud reports for 2022. U.S. consumers reported $9 billion in fraud losses, compared to $6.1 billion the year prior. Because fraud often goes unreported, this report only shows the tip of the iceberg. Even so, it provides important insights into certain threats everyone should be aware of."

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AARP Watchdog Alert - Stop Summer Sales Solicitations

More from the AARP Watchdog Alert Network

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"Summer is officially here, which means door-to-door sales crews are, too. But buyers beware—what they’re selling isn’t always legit. Read on for red flags and guidance on how to deal with the doorbell ringers of summer."

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AARP Watchdog Alert - Fight Back Against Elder Financial Fraud

Another email from the AAPR Watchdog Alert system. You can subscribe to receive this helpful information.

"Experts estimate that more than 369,000 incidents of financial abuse targeting older adults are reported to authorities in the U.S. each year, causing an estimated $4.8 billion in losses. And those numbers probably understate the problem by a considerable amount. However, as we approach World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, it's good to remember that there are things we can do to help prevent elder financial exploitation."

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