As scams continue to affect all ages and their methods become more sophisticated, the need for proactive, community-based education and prevention becomes urgent. The San Diego Scam Jam Tour is a dynamic, multi-agency initiative designed to empower older adults and their families with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from fraud. This session will highlight the collaborative efforts between AARP California, the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force, Aging & Independence Services, Senior Tech Connect, and other local partners to deliver engaging, informative events across the region.

Through interactive presentations, expert panels, and community resource fairs, Scam Jam events have reached over a thousand older adults, caregivers, and professionals. This session will explore how the initiative was developed, the strategies used to engage diverse communities, and the measurable impact on fraud awareness and prevention. Attendees will gain insights into replicating this public education model in their own communities, with a focus on collective impact, culturally competent outreach, and sustainable partnerships.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe how psychological manipulation tactics are used in fraud schemes and analyze how shifting the narrative around fraud victims can reduce stigma and promote empathy.

2. Explain the structure and goals of the San Diego Scam Jam Tour and evaluate its effectiveness as a collaborative model for community-based fraud prevention.

3. Identify the key components of a successful multi-agency fraud prevention initiative and share strategies for replicating similar efforts in other regions.