During April, AARP is helping protect families and neighbors from the growing threat of fraud
HARRISBURG, Pa., April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As part of AARP Fraud Prevention Month, AARP is hosting hundreds of free, local fraud prevention events in communities nationwide – including shredding events, Scam Jams, and educational workshops. These activities are designed to equip residents with simple, actionable steps to help protect themselves and their families from fraud and scams.
“Criminals are relentless, and every day they are stealing from Pennsylvanians,” said AARP Pennsylvania State Director Bill Johnston-Walsh. “Awareness alone won’t stop them. That’s why AARP is taking action now – showing up in communities across the Commonwealth – to give people tools, guidance, and support they need to stop scams before real damage is done.”
Throughout April, in addition to national led events, AARP Pennsylvania is hosting local events including:
- Community Shred Days offering safe, on-site document shredding in the Pittsburgh and Philadelphia regions.
- Scam Jams on the latest fraud tactics in Lancaster and Lehigh Valley.
- A special AARP Live Fraud Prevention broadcast and online stream on April 15 at 7:30pm.
- National Tele-Town Hall on April 30 at 1:00pm
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.
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.
MEDIA CONTACT:
TJ Thiessen, tthiessen@aarp.org, 717-381-7420
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SOURCE AARP Pennsylvania
