Be Scam Savvy: Recognizing and Reducing Risk (Zoom)
Winter (9 - 13.5 hours) | Registration opens 11/24/2025 12:00 AM EST
Have you ever wondered why seniors are targeted more than any other age group for financial fraud? In 2025, criminals were using phishing, smishing, quishing, brushing, and AI technology to exploit our assets. What will 2026 bring?
This follow-up to “Protecting Ourselves from Hackers and Scammers” expands the focus to include the often-overlooked risk of fraud perpetrated by friends, family, or caretakers. Students will learn to identify scams, discuss prevention strategies, and develop a personal threat model to protect money, privacy, and decision-making.
Required readings (1–2 short articles or videos per week) prepare participants for interactive lectures, short videos, and discussion sessions. The course is ideal for seniors, caregivers, and anyone committed to safeguarding financial and personal security, providing practical tools to implement and share in daily life.
This course will combine lecture with class discussions.
David Smith
Dave Smith has long been passionate about cybersecurity and fraud prevention—just ask his family, who regularly receive updates on the latest scams. After 30+ years as a school psychologist, counselor, and behavior specialist, he now focuses on helping seniors and caregivers recognize threats, from phishing to fraud by friends or family. “We do not need to be scared, but we need to remain alert,” he says, empowering learners with practical strategies to stay safe and independent.