By Jennifer Benson, AARP Massachusetts State Director
Fraudsters are getting smarter, and people of all ages and backgrounds are feeling the impact. From identity theft to investment scams and increasingly sophisticated digital deception, criminals depend on confusion and isolation to succeed. At AARP Massachusetts, we know the most powerful defense against fraud is knowledge, and the most effective way to spread that knowledge is through people who care. That’s where learning and volunteering come together.
This April, AARP Massachusetts is hosting a series of engaging events designed to help individuals recognize scams, build confidence and take action, not only for themselves but for their families, friends and communities.
On April 11, AARP is offering a free, in-person fraud prevention workshop at the Endicott Estate in Dedham. Participants will hear about the latest scam tactics, learn practical steps to protect themselves and loved ones, and explore trusted AARP tools and resources. Many AARP volunteers first get involved by attending events like this. They learn the basics and then share that information with neighbors, community groups and social networks.
For those who prefer a virtual option, we have two events to offer. On April 14, our volunteer-run Fraud Talk Tuesday series takes up home equity theft scams, which often target homeowners facing financial pressure. On April 15, the AARP Fraud Watch Network will host a session focused on identity theft and current fraud trends. These sessions equips participants with up-to-date data and easy-to-use tips that can be shared widely.
Education can also be fun and social. On April 21, AARP Massachusetts invites you to Fraud Busters & Brewmasters at Berkley Beer Company in Taunton. Joined by staff from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, this fraud-themed evening combines trivia, prizes, pizza and drinks with valuable insights into how scams work. Events like this help normalize fraud conversations and give attendees the confidence to speak up and help others stay alert.
Families are also part of the solution. On April 24, AARP will host a hands-on, family-friendly workshop at Franklin Park Zoo that explores how artificial intelligence and digital tools can blur the lines between real and fake. Through games and activities, participants will build critical-thinking skills that are essential in today’s online world. Volunteers often play a key role in bringing these lessons to schools, libraries and community spaces, helping future generations become savvy consumers of information.
All of this learning comes together at the AARP Massachusetts Annual Volunteer Conference on April 30, happening this year at Polar Park in Worcester. Held during National Volunteer Month, the conference is both a celebration of the volunteers who make AARP’s work possible and an open door for anyone curious about getting involved. Volunteers play a vital role in fraud prevention. They help educate communities and make sure no one has to face scams on their own.
Fraud prevention is not a solo effort. By learning, sharing and volunteering, we strengthen our communities and protect one another. Whether you attend one event or many, your participation matters, and your voice can make a difference. Find event details, resources and ways to get involved at aarp.org/ma.
Jennifer Benson is the State Director for AARP Massachusetts. For more articles visit www.fiftyplusadvocate.com.
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