You’re Invited: 2021 Iowa Fraud Fighters Forums

By Doug Ommen, Iowa Insurance Commissioner

We are excited to welcome Iowans to the Iowa Insurance Division’s upcoming Iowa Fraud Fighters forums being held across the state this summer.

While last summer’s webinars were an effective and safe way to update you on the latest scams circulating in Iowa during the pandemic, our entire Iowa Fraud Fighters team cannot wait to see you all in person again. It’s so nice to share a meal, a cookie and our stories together while we learn of new scams to avoid and fight off those fraudsters.

Each year, con artists swindle almost $3 billion from 7 million Americans ages 60 and older. These scammers are professionals that have tricked the savviest of investors. So please, never be ashamed to report fraud to us. You can help your neighbor from also falling victim.

Let’s face it: Insurance and investments can be complicated, and sometimes you just need to talk the offer over with someone you trust. You have a whole team of state government officials here to help you and provide you with the resources to spot a scam and report it.

I’m pleased Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and his investigator, Al Perales, will be joining me to talk about consumer scams such as cyber fraud, social media schemes, romance scams and imposter cons.

Our SHIIP and Senior Medicare Patrol Director, Kristin Griffith, will talk through all the new ways scammers are trying to steal your Medicare card, your identity and the government’s money.

As a team panel, we are pleased to answer any questions you may have after our short presentations. Each forum will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a complimentary lunch served at noon and paid for by fines and settlements levied against bad actors.

2021 Iowa Fraud Fighters Forums:

• June 24: Prairie Meadows Event Center in Altoona
• July 8: Wild Rose Casino and Resort in Clinton
• July 21: Bien VenU Event Center in Cedar Falls
• July 22: Pinter’s Event Center in Decorah

Event capacity is limited so please RSVP soon to save your seat by calling 866-559-7114 or registering online. It’s a great opportunity for you to meet new people, learn how to avoid and report fraud and share what you’ve learned in your community.