Senior Services Plus (SSP), located at 2306 N. Rodgers Avenue in Alton, IL will be hosting a panel discussion entitled “Consumer Fraud Awareness: Advice from the Experts” on Friday, January 31st, 2025, from 12-1pm. This event, sponsored by AARP Illinois, is designed to help older adults recognize, prevent, and respond to scams targeting our community. Speakers will include Marsha Griffin, Community Outreach Liaison Office of the Illinois Attorney General and Scott Verseman, Fraud & Corruption Section Chief for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois.

Consumer fraud is a growing concern, and older adults are often prime targets for scams ranging from phishing schemes to fraudulent investment offers. According to a 2023 report produced by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, there was over $3.4 billion in losses that year due to scams targeting those aged 60 and older. By hosting events like this lunch and learn, SSP and AARP Illinois hope to educate the older adult community with tips and strategies to safeguard personal information and financial resources.

“We are honored to host this fraud awareness panel sponsored by AARP Illinois,” says Theresa Collins, CEO of Senior Services Plus. “The information provided is particularly valuable, as it helps educate older adults on how to protect themselves from scams and financial exploitation. These types of initiatives empower older adults with the knowledge to recognize and prevent fraudulent activities, ensuring their safety and financial well-being.”

This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited, and RSVPs are required. Lunch is provided thanks to sponsor AARP Illinois. To register for this event, call 618-465-3298 ext. 123.