About
AARP Fraud Watch NetworkTM is a free resource for all. With AARP as your partner, you’ll learn how to proactively spot scams, get guidance from our fraud specialists if you’ve been targeted, and feel more secure knowing that we advocate at the federal, state, and local levels to protect consumers and enforce the law.
Protecting consumers goes back to AARP’s founding. Learn more about our history.
What We Help You Do
Stay Informed
Knowledge gives you power over scams. The AARP Fraud Watch NetworkTM equips you with reliable, up-to-date insights, alerts and fraud prevention resources to help you spot and avoid scams and protect your loved ones. We even cover the latest scams in the news.
Find Support
If you've been targeted by scams or fraud, you are not alone. Our trained fraud specialists provide support and guidance on what to do next and how to avoid scams in the future. The AARP fraud helpline, 877-908-3360, is free and available to anyone. We also offer online support sessions for further emotional support.
Have a Voice
AARP fights for consumers by advocating for laws and regulations to stop scams and shut down fraud attempts. We also provide a voice to consumer concerns and help shape the public discussion on fraud.
Stop a Scam Before It Starts
Most scams begin with three red flags: an unexpected contact, a surge of emotion and a sense of urgency. When you see these signs, take an “active pause.” This gives you time to process what’s happening and can help you avoid fraud. Learn More
Our Fraud Experts See Full Bios
Kathy Stokes
Director of Fraud Prevention, Fraud Watch Network
Amy Nofziger
Director of Victim Support, Fraud Watch Network
Doug Shadel
External Speaker, Fraud Watch Network
Paul Greenwood
External Speaker, Elder Abuse
AARP members make possible free resources like AARP Fraud Watch Network. Support our nonprofit, nonpartisan work that empowers people to choose how they live as they age by becoming a member today.
Highlights
AARP Tele-Town Hall: Hear the latest on how you can stay safe from scams from a recorded Tele-Town Hall on May 9, 2024. Experts shared current scam tactics and how you can recognize and avoid them.
Nancy LeaMond, AARP’s chief advocacy and engagement officer, says that urgent action and a coordinated effort by law enforcement, regulators and policy makers are needed on consumer fraud.
AARP’s The Perfect ScamSM podcast won the “Best Use of a Podcast” award in the 2020 Shorty Social Good Awards, which it shared with CNN. Finalists included brands such as HBO and GoFundMe.
In the News
A new report from the AARP Fraud Watch Network outlines the state of fraud in the US. AARP’s Kathy Stokes told WFSB-TV in New Haven, CT, “The biggest problem we have as a society here is passwords.” —4/24/2025
PlanAdviser reports on legislation that would help protect older adults from fraud. AARP‘s Bill Sweeney said the legislation “would help to equip state and local law enforcement, who are on the front lines responding to fraud, with the resources they need to investigate fraud, hold criminals accountable and bring justice to victims.” —4/23/2025
Supporters
AARP Fraud Watch Network works with industry, federal regulators, law enforcement and other nonprofits to help deliver the message of fraud prevention. Current supporters include:
