The Federal Trade Commission has issued a stark warning about the rising threat of scams targeting older Americans, with losses surging to an average of $83,000 per incident. The bureau reports that scam losses exceeding $10,000 have quadrupled in recent years, with victims overwhelmingly being adults aged 60 and older.
In response, AARP has launched Senior Planet, a national initiative offering free anti-fraud education and awareness classes to seniors. The program focuses on teaching practical methods to recognize and avoid scam tactics, such as identifying red flags and avoiding pressure to share sensitive information. The initiative includes in-person classes in multiple states, as well as online options, with the goal of helping older Americans protect themselves from cybercrime.
AARP instructor Rick Planos, whose mother fell victim to a scam that cost her over $2,500, said his personal experience drives the program’s mission. ‘I took what happened to us and put it into some kind of positive energy to protect other people,’ he said. The FTC also urged consumers to remember that government agencies will never demand money over the phone, advising them to hang up and visit official websites to report suspicious calls.
Senior Planet’s curriculum is designed to be both informative and actionable, helping seniors build confidence in navigating digital threats. The program also extends beyond scam prevention, offering courses on technology use, health education, and social engagement. In Denver, the program hosts regular in-person classes, with similar initiatives available in Texas, Maryland, and New York. The FTC’s warnings, combined with AARP’s proactive approach, highlight the growing need for targeted consumer protection in an increasingly digital world.
Carolyn Gibson, a recent student, said she joined the program to learn more about new technology, such as artificial intelligence, and how to protect herself from scams. ‘I came over here to find out who is this AI, what is this AI. The people here, they’ve been very helpful,’ she said. Instructors encourage participants to slow down, verify, and never feel rushed into sharing information—especially if contacted by someone claiming to be from a government agency. According to the website, Senior Planet helps seniors learn new skills, save money, get in shape, and make new friends.