The Fraud and Scam Survival Guide

Facilitator: Sally Kehl

Contact information: (970) 690-3725

sakehl@yahoo.com

Class length: 2 hours, Tuesdays

Class time: 1:30-3:30 pm

Class duration: 8 weeks, Sept 8—Oct 27

Place: Foxtail 2

Class size: 24

Required text: none

I will be sending out relevant reading materials, articles, case studies to heighten our knowledge and awareness of the subject.

Presentations: Encouraged, but not required. There are many frauds and scams that have been perpetrated throughout our history. I will provide a list of possibilities. I would like each class member to select one, and prepare a short report (5-to-10-minute max.) to the rest of the class.

Course Description

We will explore the history, psychology, characteristics and evolution of various forms of fraud and scams. We will examine famous fraud cases, learn how scammers manipulate victims, analyze internet-based fraud, and identify the most common and prevalent scams. We will study, and hopefully understand why and how certain groups, especially senior citizens, are frequently targeted and what personal characteristics or circumstances make them vulnerable. This class will also emphasize critical thinking, fraud awareness and prevention, along with remedial actions that can be taken if we, or someone we know, is a potential victim. We will also encourage self-awareness, by having each class member ask himself or herself: (1) Am I at risk of being scammed? And (2) What are my vulnerabilities?