Free scam protection event planned in Breezy Point

BREEZY POINT — A free event at Breezy Point Resort aims to teach Minnesotans how to protect their money from scams on July 22.

Scam Jam, hosted by the AARP and Better Business Bureau, will feature information and resources for protecting finances from scammers and fraud. The doors will open for breakfast at 8:30 a.m., and the event will run 9 a.m.-noon.

Scam Jam will include speakers on topics such as the tactics criminals use to commit fraud. The event will also have a mini-expo for resources to fight fraud, as well as a discussion about Medicare fraud by the Central Minnesota Council on Aging and Senior Linkage Line. A local branch of U.S. Bank will also discuss fraud prevention at the event.

Out of the more than 2.6 million Americans who reported fraud in 2024, nearly 1 million reported money lost to scammers, losing a total of $12.8 billion, according to the Federal Trade Commission. More than 31,000 Minnesotans reported fraud, losing $146.4 million total.

Older Americans lost the most money nationally and statewide. Out of the fraud reports that included financial losses, Americans ages 50-69 lost a total of $2.2 billion, and ages 70 and older lost $1.2 billion. Of those, Minnesotans ages 50-69 lost $33.2 million, and ages 70 and older lost $15.5 million.

Admission is free to everyone. More information and registration can be found on the Better Business Bureau's website.