Scams are everywhere today, from fake texts and emails to nonstop phone calls, and the damage is devastating. According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans lost as much as $196 billion to financial fraud in 2024, with older adults losing as much as $81.5 billion. In Virginia during 2024, total losses to fraud were nearly $297 million.
This April, AARP is launching a nationwide Fraud Prevention Month, during which volunteers across the country will host hundreds of free local events offering practical ways to stay informed, safe, and connected.
In Virginia, in-person events will be held in Richmond, Roanoke, Virginia Beach, Prince William County, Loudoun County and Fairfax. For the details on the events and how to sign up, visit aarp.org/fraudmonthva.
At 7 p.m. on April 30, AARP Virginia will host a webinar, Crypto Kiosk Scams: Protections for Virginians. AARP advocated for new legislation regulating cryptocurrency kiosks that passed during the recent session of the Virginia General Assembly. AARP Virginia State Advocacy Director Jared Calfee and Delegate Michelle Maldonado will discuss how crypto kiosks are used for fraud and what the legislation means for Virginians. To attend, register at events.aarp.org/cryptofraud.
You can also join AARP from the comfort of your home on April 15 for a special fraud prevention broadcast on RFD‑TV and online, or pick up the phone for a nationwide Tele‑Town Hall with AARP fraud experts on April 30. Learn more at aarp.org/fraudsafety.
Fraud affects every generation, and AARP Fraud Watch Network is helping people fight back—one community at a time. By learning together and sharing information, we can better protect one another.
Learn how to spot and avoid scams with AARP Fraud Watch Network™. Suspect a scam? Call our free helpline at 877-908-3360 and talk to one of our fraud specialists about what to do next.
