The United States Department of Justice today unveiled a new public service announcement (PSA) created in collaboration with AARP and the Oak Ridge Boys that will raise awareness about fraud schemes targeting older Americans.
In announcing the launch of the video and accompanying social media campaign, Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division issued the following statement:
“Fraudsters are targeting and stealing billions of dollars from unsuspecting Americans every year. In order to fight this epidemic, Americans must report fraud schemes and spread the word among their families and friends. I want to thank AARP’s Fraud Watch Network and the Oak Ridge Boys for working with us to fight this critical issue. Through increased awareness and reporting, the Department of Justice can continue to take swift action to end the victimization of vulnerable elderly Americans across the country.”
“Americans are targeted by fraudsters from all over the world,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores of the Northern District of Oklahoma. “The scams run by con artists can wreck the financial security of retired Americans. A threat to one’s hard earned savings is a threat to one’s liberty. I am proud to stand with AARP and the Oak Ridge Boys to educate and empower elder Americans to defend themselves against fraudsters.”
“Helping people spot the signs of a scam is key to helping them avoid becoming victims,” said Kathy Stokes, director of fraud prevention programs, AARP. “And encouraging people to report scam attempts and victimization will help others know what to look for, and it will help the good guys in their efforts to go after the bad guys.”
“The Oak Ridge Boys are honored to bring awareness to elder fraud and abuse. For too long people have taken advantage of our senior citizens, and we are teaming up with the Department of Justice and the AARP Fraud Watch Network to help you and your loved ones stay safe from scammers,” said Duane Allen of the Oak Ridge Boys.
“So happy to see the Department of Justice and AARP stepping up to address this problem of schemes targeting older Americans or elder fraud abuse. We are honored to be stepping up with you. Everyone is susceptible via phone or online, but the elderly are often the targets and victims of identity thieves and specific schemes targeting older Americans. The Oak Ridge Boys are honored to lend our name and image to this worthy cause,” said Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys.
If you or a family member, friend, or colleague have encountered schemes targeting older Americans or have been a victim of a fraud scheme, please report to www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork. Information about the Department of Justice’s Elder Fraud Initiative is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
