INDIAN RIVER COUNTY – The Florida Department of Financial Services, in partnership with the United Way of Indian River County and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, will offer a Be Scam-Smart Workshop on Tuesday, Sept. 12, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the United Way Center, 1836 14th Ave., Vero Beach.
Operation S.A.F.E. – Stop Adult Financial Exploitation – is an outreach initiative provided by the Florida Department of Financial Services designed to protect Florida’s seniors from financial fraud and scams through education.
Why should seniors or their caregivers attend? Scam artists are aware of the high number of seniors in Florida and look to take advantage of them financially. According to the 2014 Census estimates, Florida is home to approximately 3.8 million residents aged 65 and older and it currently ranks first in the nation in the percentage of senior residents. Florida’s senior population aged 65 and older is expected to swell to about 4.5 million by 2020.
The aim is to protect seniors from becoming a victim of financial exploitation through these educational workshops.
What will they learn?
How to Spot Fraudulent Behavior and Are you at risk?
Common Scams that Target Seniors – Is this too good to be true?
How to Fight Identity Theft – Protect, Prevent, Police
Resources to Keep You Safe – Know where to go for help.
Comprehensive scam and fraud prevention workshops are held across the state, in English and Spanish, to inform seniors on the many tactics scam artists use to steal their hard-earned money.
To register, send an email to [email protected] or call United Way, (772) 567-8900 x 120.
United Way of Indian River County fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our community. Go to www.VolunteerIndianRiverCounty.org to learn about local opportunities for service. For more information about United Way or to give online, visit www.UnitedWayIRC.org.
