The U.S. Attorney’s Office is collaborating with the Sparta Senior Center to host a seminar aimed at educating seniors in southern Illinois about fraud prevention. The event will focus on recent scams that target older adults, particularly those conducted online and over the phone.
“Fraudsters inundate us with calls, texts, and emails making deceitful claims—like posing as federal agents—to manipulate individuals into handing over their money,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “Unfortunately, we have prosecuted cases where scammers have defrauded seniors out of most of their life savings. To educate the public on the current fraud schemes and tips to avoid becoming a victim, our office will be in Sparta to give an interactive and informational presentation.”
The seminar will provide information about common online scams and schemes directed at seniors, as well as examples from federal cases prosecuted in the Southern District of Illinois. The event is scheduled for 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 20 at the Sparta Senior Center, located at 500 W. 2nd St., Sparta.
Attendees will receive practical advice for identifying potential scams and learn how to reach law enforcement if they suspect they have been targeted.
There is no cost to attend the seminar, which is open to all members of the public.
