AARP Nebraska is hosting a series of events across the state to stem the growing fraud rate.
Targeting fraud and other scams has been an ongoing focus for AARP, and the organization is taking the next step. Recent data released by the Federal Trade Commission show that Americans lost at least $195 billion to fraud and other related financial scams last year.
Jess Kinser, AARP Nebraska's associate state director for communications, said one event in Grand Island on April 11 will focus on helping protect veterans from financial fraud, because the military community is among the most targeted by scammers.
"And they lose more, on average, than their civilian counterparts," he said, "because scammers like to employ a vet-focused twist on impersonation scams, investment fraud and more."
In addition to the Grand Island meeting, AARP Nebraska is also holding events in Omaha, North Omaha and Lincoln throughout April.
Because of the tactics scammers use, Kinser said, Nebraska's veterans are especially vulnerable.
"These criminals will frequently impersonate the VA," he said. "They often threaten to cut off benefits if you don't provide sensitive personal information or pay bogus fees, and they may also contact you about investment opportunities with low fees or special offers just for veterans."
As part of its Fraud Watch Network, AARP has created an online tool to track scams in real time, as well as other resources for spotting and reporting fraud.