FRAUD PREVENTION MONTH AARP Florida Tips & Research on Avoiding Scams + Local Events

Lunchtime Conversation host Nanette Wiser spoke with Maryanna Antoldi, AARP Florida's Associate State Director of Communication about new research and tips to help you stay safe during April's Fraud Prevention Month.
Fraud Remains a Top Concern for Florida Residents, New AARP Research Shows
During AARP Fraud Prevention Month this April, AARP Florida is mobilizing communities across Florida with free events and expert resources to help residents protect themselves. New AARP research shows fraud is a widespread and growing concern. Nearly 4 in 10 U.S. adults—about 103 million people—have already experienced fraud, and an estimated 159 million are worried about becoming victims.
A little under one-third (30%) of adults says their biggest fear is being targeted themselves, followed by losing money with no way to recover it (21%) and seeing a loved one victimized (15%). These concerns highlight both the financial and emotional toll of these crimes and reflect how pervasive and personal the threat has become.
👉The report also finds that 9 in 10 Americans agree that fraud can happen to anyone. 1 in 6 adults say they answer calls (11%) or respond to texts (5%) from unknown contacts and roughly half download free apps and take online quizzes on social media that can expose personal data. Gaps in digital security also persist, including password reuse, limited use of private virtual networks on public Wi-Fi, and low adoption of multifactor authentication.   
👉As cryptocurrency ATM scams surge, Florida lawmakers have passed legislation aimed at increasing oversight of the machines. As of early April, it awaited action by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R). If it becomes law, the legislation—backed by AARP Florida—would require licensing or registration for virtual currency kiosks through the state Office of Financial Regulation and set new operating standards for the machines, including daily transaction limits of $2,000 for new customers and $10,000 for existing customers. It would also set rules for mandatory refunds—if certain conditions are met—to first-time customers who had money stolen due to fraud. AARP Florida and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement warned residents earlier this year about a surge in cryptocurrency ATM fraud. Scammers often pressure victims to deposit cash into crypto ATMs, which convert money into digital currency that is difficult to trace or recover.
👉“Criminals are persistent, and awareness alone won’t stop them,” said Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida State Director. “That’s why AARP is active in Florida communities—providing practical tools, trusted guidance, and support so people can better protect themselves and their loved ones.”  Throughout April, AARP Florida is hosting local events, including: 

AARP Fraud Watch Network provides free tools and support to help people spot and avoid fraud, including: 
 • AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline (877-908-3360) - Free guidance from trained fraud specialists, available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET. 
• Watchdog Alerts- A free bi-weekly email and text newsletter covering the latest fraud trends. 
• Scam-Tracking Map - See fraud occurring near you or report an incident. 
To find local events or learn more about AARP Fraud Prevention Month, visit aarp.org/localfraudevents 
About the AARP Fraud Watch Network 
Launched in 2013, the AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource for people of all ages. Consumers can sign up for Watchdog Alerts by email or text, call the free helpline at 877-908-3360 to report scams or seek support, and access tools to track scams nationwide. The program also provides expert insights, prevention tips, and education to help individuals safeguard their finances and identities. 
About AARP 
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the 125 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest-circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPLatino and @AARPadvocates on social media. 

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