By Danielle Smith, Keystone State News Service
Photo courtesy of Markus Spiske on Unsplash
Fraud targeting everyday people is hitting close to home for thousands of Pennsylvania families, and new data show the problem is worsening, especially with cryptocurrency scams.
An AARP study ranks Pennsylvania sixth in the nation for fraud reports, with more than 31,000 cases and losses topping $537 million.
Teresa Osborne, state advocacy director for AARP Pennsylvania, said nearly four in 10 adults have experienced fraud, including more than one in three people over 50. She noted that many cases go unreported, as scams continue shifting online.
“Criminals are taking advantage of new technology and everyday digital habits — like what am I doing on my iPhone or my computer?” said Osborne. “Am I answering texts? Am I clicking on links? And cryptocurrency is especially dangerous.”
She said that’s because those transactions are hard to trace and almost impossible to reverse. Osborne added that AARP pushes for stronger consumer protections and better fraud reporting systems, because education alone isn’t enough.
She recommended reporting any fraud or scams to local law enforcement or contacting AARP’s Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 877-908-3360.
Osborne said it’s important for people to pay attention to warning signs to spot if a crypto scam is underway.
“Pressure is a huge red flag,” said Osborne. “Being told you have to act fast or keep something secret. Other major warning signs include being told to move money into cryptocurrency to fix a problem or protect your finances.”
Osborne added that legitimate businesses and government agencies do not demand crypto payments.
To help combat the problem, AARP is focusing on education and outreach, hosting community events, and providing resources to help people recognize and report scams.
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