National program helps seniors spot scams as losses surge

Scams targeting seniors are on the rise, with average losses reaching $83,000 per victim last year. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that scammers are becoming more sophisticated, often impersonating government officials like IRS agents to trick individuals. Losses exceeding $10,000 have quadrupled recently. In response to this surge, AARP has launched a national program called Senior Planet. This initiative offers free fraud-awareness classes nationwide to equip seniors with the knowledge to recognize and avoid various scams. The classes teach participants how to identify warning signs, spot fraudulent communications, and resist pressure to share sensitive information. The Senior Planet program provides both in-person and online classes, with availability in states such as Colorado, Texas, Maryland, and New York. Instructors emphasize the importance of slowing down, verifying information, and never feeling rushed, especially when contacted by indi... download the app to read more