Idaho Dept. of Finance, Alliance to host scam prevention event

 The Idaho Scam Jam Alliance, in partnership with the Idaho Department of Finance, is hosting a “Scam Jam” at the Weiser Vendome Sept. 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 The topic involves online and phone scams that more often than not appear legitimate, bilking Americans of their hard-earned money.

 According to one FBI report, people lose over $3 billion a year, a number that continues to rise. Idaho Scam Jam Alliance (ISJA) is working hard to reverse the scamming industry’s upward trend through Scam Jams that are held in communities throughout Idaho.

 “It will be a panel-style discussion on trending scams, how scammers work and how to outsmart them, where and how to report, and what to do if you’ve already been a victim of a scam,” noted Idaho Dept. of Finance Program Specialist Kellie Davis of the Sept. 5 event. “There will be expert speakers from the Idaho Dept. of Finance, Legal Aid, Idaho Attorney General Consumer Protection, BBB (Better Business Bureau), FTC (Federal Trade Commission) and the Idaho Commission on Aging.”

 Also present will be law enforcement, various state government agencies and other nonprofit organizations on the front lines of consumer protection, according to an Aug. 7 press release.

 “These speakers, with their experience and knowledge, will discuss some of the latest scam tactics and trends, tips to identify and avoid a scam, provide practical tips to protect personal information and share resources to report and recover from scams,” the release states. “Light refreshments, swag and door prizes will be available.”

 Since bad actors target individuals of all ages and backgrounds, the event is open to all and registration is not required.

 According to the Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker, between January and July of this year, Idaho consumers have reported losing $317,000 to scams, with an additional $470,000 in attempted losses.

 If you can’t make the Sept. 5 event in Weiser, there are two other Scam Jams taking place, the first in Meridian at the Meridian Senior Center Sept. 4 from 6-8 p.m. and another at the Nampa Library Sept. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 For more information, visit http://www.finance.idaho.gov/about-us/events/ or contact the Idaho Department of Finance at (209) 332-8000. You can also visit Idaho Scam Jam Alliance at www.idscamjamalliancel.org.