State of Oregon and AARP to Host Fraud Fighter Summit in Medford

Medford, Oregon- The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) and Oregon AARP will host the Fraud Fighter Summit and Resource Fair on Saturday, April 12, in Medford. The event aims to educate residents on recognizing and preventing scams.

The free summit will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Smullin Health Education Center, located at 2825 E. Barnett Road. Doors open at 9 a.m., and on-site parking will be available. Attendees will also receive a light lunch.

Representatives from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Construction Contractors Board (CCB) will join DFR and AARP to discuss emerging fraud tactics and prevention strategies.

Speakers include DFR Administrator TK Keen, Oregon AARP State Director Bandana Shrestha, AARP Director of Advocacy and Outreach Carmel Snyder, CCB Communications and Outreach Coordinator Tori Garcia, FTC Regional Director Chuck Harwood, and Doug Shadel, a national expert on fraud prevention.

Keen will provide guidance on identifying scams, recovering from fraud, and working with insurance companies. Garcia will present additional fraud prevention resources and reporting methods.

“It is important for people to do their due diligence so that they do not become a victim of scams and fraud,” Keen said. “This is especially true when they are in a vulnerable position, including after a natural disaster. Unfortunately, not everyone who rushes in after a flood or fire is there to help.”

Consumers who believe they may have been scammed in relation to an insurance or financial product can contact DFR for assistance. Consumer advocates are available at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free).