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How to Avoid Scams Following Wildfires and Other Disasters

Criminals are among the first responders during a crisis, taking advantage of others' suffering with fake charities and other schemes

AARP FRAUD WATCH NETWORKTM

Our team of fraud fighters has the real-world tips and tools to help protect you and your loved ones. 

      

877-908-3360

 Toll-free service is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET

Follow This Advice Before Accepting a Stranger’s Check

Fake-check scams flourish, as criminals take advantage of the delay before a payment clears

6 Ways to Avoid a Real ID Scam as TSA Deadline Nears

Scammers might exploit the fact that you'll need the upgraded driver’s license to fly after May 7

25 Expert Tips for Avoiding Scams (Members Edition)

Practical things you can do to protect yourself as crimes grow more sophisticated

Scam News and Alerts

Five of the Biggest Scams to Watch for in 2025

Old frauds don’t disappear — they become more sophisticated. Here’s how to protect yourself this year

Do You Really Need an RFID-Blocking Wallet or Purse?

Experts say not to waste your money — but warn that thieves can swipe your data in other way

Avoid Cruise Scams When Planning Your Next Trip

Make sure your cruising vacation plans aren’t derailed by online criminals

Victims Targeted in Stolen Cash Recovery Scams

Be aware of unscrupulous criminals who offer to help make you whole again

10 Red Flags Your Tax Preparer Is a Fraud

Protect your money and identity by choosing your tax professional carefully

Drivers: Keep an Eye Out for New Toll Road Scams

Criminals pretend to be highway officials requesting payment after your trip

New Laws Allow Banks to Pause Suspicious Transactions

State lawmakers hope that the legislation can protect customers who may be in the midst of a scam

Many Scammers Now Ask for Payment in Gold Bars

Criminals tell victims to liquidate their savings to buy gold — then hand it over for ‘safekeeping’

Fraud Fighting

What to Do if Your Wallet Is Lost or Stolen

7 steps to prevent identity theft and money loss — plus how to replace what’s missing

How to Manage Relationships With Chronic Scam Victims

Sometimes a loved one refuses to or can’t see that they’re the victim of a scam

13 Ways to Protect Yourself From Fraud

Learn how to lower your risk and keep criminals at bay

What to Know About Credit Card Skimmers

7 tips to protect yourself from criminals who install skimmers on card readers to steal users’ cash

Another Darn Breach? How to Protect Your Personal Data

Your information is likely out on the dark web, but you can still take steps to minimize risk

How, Why and When to Check (or Freeze) Your Credit Score

Monitoring your creditworthiness is key for tracking your financial health and spotting fraud

Victim Support

AARP's Fraud Watch Network Helpline Is Fighting for You

Volunteers provide emotional support and practical advice to scam victims

Keep Those With Cognitive Decline Safe From Scams

Key steps to protect vulnerable family members’ finances in an age of rampant fraud

More on Fraud

Title Fraud Thiefs Steal Your Identity — Then Your Home

Criminals can use public information to victimize both buyers and owners in this real estate scam

Are You a Scam Victim? You Might Get Hit Again by Taxes

Advocates are working to change federal laws to separate fraud losses from taxable income

What to Know to Protect Yourself Against Bank Scams

It can be hard to tell whether you’re being contacted by your bank or a criminal

14 Must-Listen Podcasts About Scams and Con Artists

Find eye-opening true-crime stories and tips for avoiding fraud

What to Do After You’ve Experienced a Scam

Take these steps to protect your bank accounts and personal information, and find the support you need

15 of the Worst Things to Keep in Your Wallet

With identity theft rampant, keep only the essentials in your pocket or purse (Members Edition)

How to Avoid ‘Wrong Number’ Text Scams

Crooks pretend to contact you accidentally to lure you into a crypto investment or other scheme

The Perfect Scam Podcast: When Suicide Follows a Scam

A crypto scheme takes everything from a grandfather. His family shares his story

‘Shark Tank’ Stars Fed Up as Scammers Use Their Images

Criminals manipulate their photos and videos in ads for weight-loss products, keto gummies 

FRAUD RESOURCE CENTER

Learn how to spot and avoid the common scams listed below

 

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