HOUSTON — While April Fool’s Day is known for pranks, AARP Texas is warning that fraud targeting Texans, especially older adults, is anything but a joke.
New data from the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center shows Texans reported about $1.35 billion in fraud losses last year, placing Texas among the hardest-hit states in the nation. Older adults are seeing some of the fastest-growing financial losses, with scams becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect.
AARP Texas is taking fraud prevention directly to communities with free, in-person and virtual events, including:
- Community shred days to safely dispose of old tax documents, bills and any other sensitive information;
- Fraud prevention workshops in select cities; and
- Virtual learning session accessible statewide.
Media are invited to cover local shred events and speak with AARP staff. Find the full schedule of activities hereor by visiting: https://www.aarp.org/states/texas/free-paper-shredding-events-and-fraud-workshops-to-protect-your-identity/
NOTE TO EDITORS: Why This Matters Now
- April is Fraud Prevention Month
- Texas ranks among the top states for fraud losses
- Cryptocurrency kiosk scams are on the rise
- Events provide visual, community-based news coverage opportunities.
