Tag Archives for Federal Trade Commission

Free AARP Rhode Island Opportunities for Older Rhode Islanders

Published in RINewsToday on March 23, 2026

AARP Rhode Island—one of 53 AARP state and territory offices serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—works to improve the quality of life for older Rhode Islanders. The organization promotes positive social change and delivers value to more than 125,000 members through information, advocacy, and service.

Alongside their national headquarters in Washington, D.C., AARP’s nonprofit state offices lead community engagement, advocacy, and educational programming at the local level. As the state’s largest aging advocacy organization, AARP Rhode Island represents its members on key issues, including Social Security taxes, healthcare, and long-term care.

AARP’s advocacy efforts helped secure passage of the Rhode Island Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program and last year’s legislation to regulate crypto ATM kiosks. The organization is now pushing to eliminate the state tax on Social Security and continues to support the state’s more than 121,000 family caregivers.

Fighting fraud is a particular AARP focus year-round, but especially in April and May. In 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission, Rhode Island consumers reported more than 11,776 fraud cases, resulting in an alarming $20.7 million in losses. Consequently, AARP Rhode Island is taking the fight into Ocean State communities.

“Fraud prevention is about action,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor – “When AARP shows up in communities with trusted tools and local workshops, we’re helping neighbors protect themselves and each other. We’re delighted to partner with the East Side/Mount Hope YMCA and the Cranston YMCA to address this escalating threat.”

Also in response, AARP Rhode Island will host a free “Fraud Fighting Fridays” document-shredding event, in Providence at the A. Vincent Igliozzi Recreation Center, 675 Plainfield Street, on Friday, April 10, from 9 a.m. to noon. This is the first of nine drive-thru drop-off workshops scheduled statewide through June. Registration and details are available at www.aarp.org/RIEvents.

Also – mark your calendar for the upcoming three free presentations from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the East Side/Mount Hope YMCA (Meeting Room), 438 Hope Street, Providence.

April 8, 2026
Topic: Fraud Basics — The Scam Landscape & Staying Safe

In 2024, Rhode Island recorded 11,776 fraud reports to the Federal Trade Commission. That same year, there were approximately 2,896 identity theft cases in the Ocean State, which consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for identity theft per capita. According to AARP Rhode Island, the AARP Fraud Watch Network is helping empower older adults to fight back against scams by providing trusted tools and resources to recognize, avoid, and report fraud.

At this workshop, you’ll learn about the latest fraud trends, along with practical tips and resources to help protect yourself and your family. With just a few simple steps, you can reduce your risk and take control. Volunteer instructors will highlight common scams, explain how to spot red flags, and break down the tactics scammers use to target individuals. You’ll also learn what to do if you encounter fraud and where to turn for help—so you can better protect yourself and your loved ones.

April 15, 2026
Topic: Government Impostor Scams

According to the Federal Trade Commission, in 2024, adults aged 60 and older reported losing millions of dollars to scammers posing as representatives of trusted government agencies and businesses. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their efforts to steal your money and personal information—often by pretending to be someone they’re not, says AARP Rhode Island. At this workshop, you’ll learn what government impostor scams are and the tactics scammers use to target victims. You’ll also receive practical tips on how to spot these scams and access resources to help protect yourself.

April 22, 2026
Topic: Vigilance Against Cybercrime

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, approximately 1,642 Rhode Islanders were victims of cybercrime in 2025. However, the true number is likely much higher, as many incidents go unreported. In today’s fast-moving digital world, AARP Rhode Island emphasizes that safeguarding your personal information is more important than ever. Whether you’re in public, at home, shopping online, using social media, or managing your finances, this workshop will provide practical guidance to help you stay safe and secure. You’ll learn how to recognize the latest scams, protect your digital identity, and take control of your online safety.

Another three workshops, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will be held at the Cranston YMCA, 1225 Park Avenue, Cranston

April 28, 2026
Topic: Government Impostor Scams

This workshop, similar to the one held earlier in Providence, will explain what government impostor scams are and detail the tactics scammers use to target victims. You’ll also learn practical tips on how to spot these scams and access resources to help protect yourself.

May 5, 2026
Topic: Downsizing and Decluttering

Let AARP Rhode Island show you how to simplify and declutter your life. If you’re looking to clear out items accumulated over the years, join this free workshop to learn practical organizing strategies. During this one-hour session, you’ll learn how to begin your decluttering journey and how better organization can positively impact your daily life.

May 12, 2026
Topic: Understanding Social Security

Learn the ABCs of Social Security and gain a clearer understanding of how this vital retirement program works. Instructors will share information and resources to help you make informed decisions about when to claim your benefits. The workshop will explain the differences between full, early, and delayed retirement benefits, as well as spousal and survivor benefits. It will also touch on ongoing efforts in Congress to ensure the program’s long-term financial stability.To register for these workshops, go to AARP Rhode Island Upcoming Events.

 Herb Weiss, LRI, 12, is a Pawtucket-based writer who has covered aging, healthcare, and medical issues for more than 45 years. To purchase his books, Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly and its two sequels, visit herbweiss.com.

Rhode Island Now One of 12 States Cracking Down on Crypto ATM Fraud

Published in RINewsToday on August 11, 2025

Rhode Island joins 11 other states in enacting laws or regulations to protect consumers from fraud at cryptocurrency ATMs, addressing the disproportionate impact on older adults.  According to the Washington, DC-based AARP, older adults disproportionately fall victim to Crypto ATM Fraud.

On June 17, 2025, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, put a spotlight on this national issue at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled, “Scammers Exposed: Protecting Older Americans from Transnational Crime Networks.” At the hearing, the Illinois senator announced the introduction of the Crypto ATM Fraud Prevention Act with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Peter Welch (D-VT) to help end these scams.

Crypto ATMs look like normal ATMs and can be found in 45,000 locations nationwide, including grocery stores and gas stations. The key difference is that instead of depositing money with your bank, a crypto ATM allows customers to purchase cryptocurrency like Bitcoin. Crypto ATM scams led to nearly $247 million in losses in 2024, says Senator Durbin, citing an FBI report. Adults over age 60 accounted for more than 67% of the victims of reported crypto ATM fraud.

According to Federal Trade Commission data, nationwide fraud losses through crypto ATMs jumped nearly tenfold from 2020 to 2024 and surpassed $65 million in the first half of 2024.

Bipartisan Support Key to Passage of Crypto Legislative Proposals

Throughout the nation, at the state level, the burgeoning kiosk industry lacks important regulations, making crypto ATMs ripe for criminal fraud, says AARP. With support from the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization advocating for America’s older adults, 11 states enacted new laws this year to combat the hundreds of millions of dollars lost annually to crypto ATM fraud.  Bipartisan support on both sides of the aisle resulted in passage of legislative proposals in these states – Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Maine, Illinois, Maryland, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

“In state after state, AARP found lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and local law enforcement eager to work on commonsense rules that balance innovation and consumer safety,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, in a statement announcing successful state legislative actions. “With criminals disproportionately targeting older Americans through crypto ATM scams, we’re proud to have helped pass these laws that will better protect millions of people nationwide from having their hard-earned money stolen,” she said.

“Our law that passed the statehouse in Illinois will see consumers at crypto ATMs protected by transaction limits, required ATM registration, guidelines on refunds after fraud, and more,” said AARP Illinois State Director Philippe Largent. “We’re committed to staying on top of this issue and other modern-day fraud trends to ensure that our 1.7 million members in Illinois—and all older adults and their families—are not robbed of their hard-earned money.”

“Nebraska’s new law, which passed on March 6, is hopefully a model for other states – and perhaps even one day the nation,” said AARP Nebraska State Director Todd Stubbendieck. “We know this law is greatly needed, and when the legislation goes into effect in September, we expect it will have a significant impact in helping to deter crypto ATM fraud.”

Rhode Island Passes Protective Crypto Legislation, Too

As Sen. Durbin held his hearing, that day, June 17th,  the Rhode Island General Assembly approved legislation sponsored by Senate Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technologies Committee Chairwoman Victoria Gu (D-Dist. 38, Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingstown) and Rep. Julie A. Casimiro (D-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter) to protect older Rhode Islanders from the rapidly growing category of scams that use cryptocurrency ATMs to defraud victims. The legislation was signed into law by Gov. Dan McKee on June 26, 2025.

The Nuts and Bolts

The legislation (S 0016A, H 5121A) states that each crypto ATM operator must register with the Department of Business Regulation as a money transmitter and is required to provide live customer service Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

Daily limits would be set to $2,000 per day for new customers and $5,000 per day for existing customers. New customers are defined as utilizing the ATMs of a licensed operator for the first time and for 30 days thereafter. Existing customers include any person who has used the ATM of a licensed operator for more than 30 days after first use.

A new customer can receive a full refund if they report the fraud to law enforcement within 90 days. An existing customer can receive a refund of the transaction fees if they report the fraud to law enforcement within 90 days. In both cases, the customer must notify both the ATM operator and law enforcement.

Operators would be required to provide numerous statutory disclosures (including fees) and warnings to protect and inform users. The company must also provide a detailed paper receipt of all transactions in compliance with statutory requirements.

“Cryptocurrency ATMs are kiosks that allow users to deposit cash and easily convert it into cryptocurrency. We’ve seen victims in our own communities lose thousands of dollars when scammers direct them to send cash through these machines. Rhode Island, compared to some neighboring states, is behind the curve on regulating this new technology,” warned Gu.

“Crypto ATMs are unfortunately an increasingly common way for criminals to get away with their ill-gotten gains, and without increased regulation, this trend will only accelerate,” she said.

“Crypto ATMs look a lot like regular ATMs, and you can find them across Rhode Island in convenience stores, laundromats, liquor stores, and smoke shops. You’ve probably walked by one without even knowing it. They have no transaction limits, and once money is deposited to a scammer, there is virtually no way to recover it.  Regulation of these kiosks is long overdue. It’s our responsibility as lawmakers to protect Rhode Islanders—especially the elderly—from scammers and techno-criminals, and this legislation is an important part of fulfilling that responsibility,” said Casimiro.

“This important legislation will deter criminals from using crypto ATMs for fraudulent activity by creating important safety measures and consumer protections. Older Rhode Islanders have worked hard to save for a secure retirement. AARP applauds the General Assembly for ensuring that Rhode Islanders’ savings remain where they belong—and not in a criminal’s digital wallet,” said Catherine Taylor, AARP Rhode Island State Director.

While it was a monumental achievement to pass legislation in so many statehouses across the country, AARP continues its work to push legislative proposals in other states without anti-fraud measures to protect older adults.

To learn how to spot and avoid scams, go to:
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/about-fraud-watch-network/

If you suspect financial fraud, report it to local law enforcement or call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 877-908-3360. You can also visit:
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/helpline

For more details about crypto fraud, go to:
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/cryptocurrency/

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Fraud Schemes Targeting Older Adults: Senate Aging Committee Sounds Alarm

Published in RINewsToday on July 21, 2025

“Congratulations! We are pleased to inform you that you are one of our lucky winners,” read the letter.

The official-looking correspondence—purportedly from the desk of the Vice President, International Promotions/Prize Award Department of Publishers Clearing House (PCH)—continued:

“On behalf of the members and staff of PCH, the Association of North America Lottery, and Provincial Sweepstakes, we sincerely congratulate you on your grand prize winnings of $750,000… Please contact your claims agent to arrange method of payment.”

Enclosed was a check, appearing legitimate, allegedly issued by Northern Fairfield Insurance (NFI) of Danbury, Connecticut, from a Webster Bank account, in the amount of $9,700.65.

According to the letter, the check was intended to help cover taxes, handling, and processing fees related to the prize.

Northern Fairfield Insurance, established in 1998, is a small firm with just three employees, including its owner, Jim Ostrove. Nearly two weeks ago, Ostrove began receiving calls—mine among them—asking whether the PCH letter and enclosed check were legitimate.

“The volume has tapered off by the day,” he admits, noting that “we’re no longer receiving any calls.”

A quick call to NFI confirmed my suspicions: the letter, marked “Confidential,” was a scam. In conversation with Ostrove, he said, “I felt violated and angry.”

Concerned, Ostrove contacted Webster Bank—the financial institution listed on the counterfeit check—to confirm that no account had been set up in his company’s name. The bank quickly verified this, noting that the check’s routing number was invalid and had no connection to a legitimate account. “Looking closely at the PCH check, I also realized that the name of my insurance company was misspelled,” Ostrove added.

Ostrove says the bank’s fraud unit was very helpful and confirmed the check was fake. His concerns about any potential financial fallout for his business were eased, he says.

Although Ostrove filed a police report, he had no real expectation that the scammers would be caught. “I just wanted the report on file in case someone came forward about the reward and tried to hold me financially responsible,” he said.

“My report made it very clear that I was a victim of fraud,” he emphasized.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, victims reported nearly $350 million in losses to prize, sweepstakes, and lottery-related scams in 2024.

Like me, the Better Business Bureau estimates that tens of thousands of individuals will receive similar scam mailings in 2025—complete with fake prize notifications, counterfeit checks, and fraudulent requests for payment or personal information. The actual number of victims may be much higher, as many incidents go unreported.

Senate Aging Committee Puts a Spotlight on Scams and Financial Exploitation

On Feb. 12, 2016, the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging announced the publication of its first full-year “Fraud Book,” Protecting Older Americans Against Fraud, covering the period from January 1 to December 31, 2015. These annual reports aim to raise awareness about the growing number of fraud schemes targeting older Americans and provide specific recommendations to combat them.

The latest, published just recently, is a 40-page multi-language annual report, Age of Fraud: Scams Facing Our Nation’s Seniors (Report No. 119-35 of the 119th Congress), and was released on July 10, 2025. It highlights the many forms of fraud—including grandparent scams, tech support fraud, financial service scams, travel and timeshare fraud, romance scams, and government impersonation schemes.

“These schemes often target emotional vulnerabilities, particularly among seniors facing loneliness, isolation, or depression,” note Chairman Rick Scott (R-Florida) and Ranking Member Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York) in a statement announcing the newly released report.

The 2025 bipartisan report outlines the growing financial threats facing aging Americans and ways for seniors to identify red flags that provide warnings of scams, suggests practical tips on how to protect themselves, and how to report scams. This year’s edition underscores the alarming rise in sophisticated schemes, particularly those utilizing artificial intelligence (AI). In 2024 alone, fraud and scams cost seniors over $4.8 billion, with those aged 50–59 losing an additional $2.5 billion.

“Across our nation, older Americans are being targeted every day by increasingly sophisticated scams that rob them not only of their hard-earned savings but also of their security and peace of mind. These attacks are personal, and they are unacceptable,” says Scott, stressing that fighting fraud against older Americans will remain a top priority for the Committee.

“Through critical initiatives like National Slam the Scam Day and our toll-free Fraud Hotline, we are expanding access to education, prevention tools, and direct support to empower families to recognize fraud and respond quickly,” he says.

“This report shines a direct light on the scale and severity of the threat we’re facing, and we must be united in our determination to stay vigilant, informed, and proactive in defending our seniors,” adds Scott.

Gillibrand adds, “We must do everything we can to prevent and fight back against these scams, and that starts with monitoring fraud whenever and wherever it occurs. As Ranking Member of the Senate Aging Committee, I’m committed to continuing the fight against fraud, and I hope this Fraud Book is a valuable resource for our aging communities.”

The report serves as a significant wake-up call to Congress. Fraud continues to skyrocket, notes the Committee. Citing FBI data, 2024 was a record year for losses reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, totaling a staggering $16.6 billion. There were 859,532 complaints that year—and over 4.2 million complaints over the past five years.

The report also emphasizes that fraud targeting older adults is growing in both complexity and financial impact, making enhanced awareness, education, and robust support systems more critical than ever.

 According to the FBI, from 2023 to 2024:

  • Overall losses increased 33%, mostly due to fraud.
  • Average loss for those age 60 and older rose to $83,000.
  • Reports for this age group increased by 43%.
  • Cryptocurrency-related losses rose by 66%.
  • Complaints involving cryptocurrency kiosks increased by 99%.

To safeguard aging Americans from fraud, scams, and financial exploitation, the Senate Aging Committee has led two bipartisan efforts: one resolution designating March 6, 2025, as National Slam the Scam Day to raise awareness and educate the public about fraud prevention, and another recognizing May 2025 as Older Americans Month. Both efforts aim to inform and protect older adults while reinforcing the committee’s commitment to combating fraud through public education, legislative action, and advocacy for stronger safeguards—ensuring seniors can enjoy their golden years with greater security and peace of mind.

From the Ocean State

According to the 2025 Fraud Report, the Federal Trade Commission reported 11,776 complaints were filed in Rhode Island in 2024.

“Our team tracks patterns of scams reported to us throughout the year,” says Timothy M. Rondeau, Communications Director for the Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General. “This year, we’ve continued to see a wide range of fraudulent actors deceiving Rhode Islanders through romance scams, imposter scams, and scams involving cryptocurrency.”

According to Rondeau, while new scams aren’t necessarily emerging, the tools and methods used are evolving. “AI tools are increasingly used in imposter and romance scams, where AI-generated voices and videos deceive and manipulate victims,” he explains. “While we can’t always confirm AI involvement in each case, we know the use of AI makes it much harder—especially for older adults—to distinguish between real and fraudulent interactions.”

For more information about common scams or to file a complaint, Rhode Islanders can visit: riag.ri.gov/scams

If you or someone you know has been a victim—or suspects they’ve been targeted—please call the Senate Aging Committee’s Fraud Hotline at 1-855-303-9470 (open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time). If you’d like a member of the committee’s team to return your inquiry, please include your phone number in the web form.

Go here to read the Senate Aging Committees 2025 Fraud Report,

The US Dept. of Justice released this information in recognition of Elder Abuse Awareness Day – The Justice Department Highlights Enforcement Efforts Protecting Older Americans from Transnational Fraud Schemes in Recognition of 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day contains specific information on each type of fraud and what the US Government is doing to shut it down.

AARP offers  Tips on Protecting Yourself Against Fraud.

AARP also has a Fraud Watch Network.