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AARP produces video to fight summer scams
FROM STAFF REPORTS
The 2026 Summer Scam Jam video can be found on the AARP of north
Carolina Youtube channel: youtube.com/aarPnorthCarolina1.
AARP OF NORTH CAROLINA
AARP is offering North Carolinians a new way to learn how to recognize and avoid scams this summer through a statewide fraud prevention campaign.
The organization announced its "Summer Scam Jam," a 20-minute on-demand video program designed to help residents — particularly older adults and their families — identify common scams, protect personal information and report fraud.
The virtual program, produced by AARP on behalf of the N.C. Senior Consumer Fraud Task Force, is available throughout July on AARP North Carolina's YouTube channel.
The initiative comes as fraud losses continue to climb nationwide. According to the FBI's 2025 Internet Crime Complaint Center Annual Report, adults age 60 and older reported losing about $7.7 billion to fraud and other internet-enabled crimes in 2025, the highest total of any age group. The losses represented a 59% increase from 2024.
"With fraud and identity theft continuing to rise nationwide, the Summer Scam Jam provides viewers with practical tools and real-time insights into emerging scam trends," Thessia Everhart of the North Carolina Association of Aging said in a news release. "Participants will learn directly from fraud prevention experts, law enforcement partners, and AARP volunteers about tactics used by scammers and how to stay one step ahead."
Michael Olender, AARP North Carolina's state director and co-host of the program, said scammers are continually changing their tactics.
"Scammers are constantly evolving, using new technology and more sophisticated approaches to steal money and personal information," Olender said. "Our Summer Scam Jam empowers people with the knowledge and confidence they need to protect themselves and their loved ones."
The program is available at AARP North Carolina's YouTube channel at youtube.com/ AARPNorthCarolina1.
In addition to the online presentation, AARP said trained Fraud Watch volunteers are available to attend community screenings of the program and answer questions afterward.Organizations interested in arranging a presenter can email ncaarp@aarp.org with "Summer Scam Jam" in the subject line.
The Summer Scam Jam is part of AARP's ongoing Fraud Watch Network, a free resource that provides scam alerts, prevention tips and support for fraud victims.
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CORRECTIONS
CORRECTIONS: the Independent tribune wants to promptly correct any erroneous or inaccurate information published. email corrections to Mark plemmons at mplemmons@ independenttribune.com.
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