By the time you reach my age, you’ve seen a lot of new technology, new ways to do business, and unfortunately, new ways for criminals to steal from honest people. As AARP North Dakota’s volunteer state president, I hear from neighbors in every corner of our state who have gotten a suspicious call, text or email, or who are trying to help a friend or family member recover after a scam.

That’s why April — Fraud Prevention Month — is a useful reminder to slow down, compare notes, and talk openly about scams. Fraud thrives in silence and embarrassment. Fraud shrinks when we share warnings, report scams without embarrassment, and use trusted resources to get help.

Fraud by the numbers — and why it matters here at home

The scale of financial fraud is staggering. The Federal Trade Commission estimates that, when accounting for underreporting, as much as $195.9 billion was stolen from Americans through financial fraud in 2024–and as much as $81.5 billion of that was taken from older adults.

North Dakota is not immune. In 2024, total reported fraud losses in our state reached $14.4 million, and 5,425 fraud reports were filed with law enforcement. Imposter scams and identity theft topped reports, but many losses remain unreported.

And the damage isn’t only financial. AARP research shows nearly four in 10 U.S. adults — about 103 million people — have experienced fraud, and an estimated 159 million are worried about becoming victims. People tell us their biggest fears are being targeted themselves, losing money with no way to recover it, or seeing a loved one victimized.

If you’ve felt that worry, you’re not alone — and you’re not overreacting. The good news is that a few practical habits, plus a community that looks out for each other, can prevent a lot of heartache.

What AARP and North Dakota leaders are doing

AARP North Dakota has worked for years to protect consumers and to help people recognize scams before money leaves their hands. During the 2025 ND Legislative Session, we helped our state become only the second in the nation to pass legislation regulating cryptocurrency kiosks – machines that criminals often direct victims to use because payments can be difficult to trace or recover.

We also bring fraud prevention information directly to communities. AARP North Dakota hosts fraud prevention events and presentations (find them at aarp.org/local). If you’re interested in arranging a presentation on frauds and scams for your community group, our Speakers Bureau offers sessions statewide. Visit www.aarp.org/NDspeakers for more information.

Erase the shame

One of the hardest parts of fraud is the shame criminals try to leave behind. I want readers to know this clearly: if you’ve been targeted, you deserve support — not blame.

Scams are carried out by criminals who are skilled at manipulation, and they target smart, capable people every day. When we shift from blame and toward reporting, we give law enforcement and consumer advocates a better chance to stop repeat offenders — and we help our neighbors avoid the same trap.

Keep the focus on the criminals’ bad actions, rather than the victim’s actions. Encourage reporting, even if money wasn’t lost to the scam.

Remember: this can happen to anyone — and speaking up can protect the next person.

Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones

The AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource that can help you spot scams earlier and get guidance from trained fraud specialists. You can reach the AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline at 877-908-3360, Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. (CT).

Nancy Guy is state volunteer president of AARP North Dakota.