The FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA) hosted a special virtual program on July 30, 2026, focused on raising awareness about elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and fraud targeting older adults.
The presentation brought community members together with FBI speakers who shared important information about common scams, warning signs of exploitation, and practical steps individuals can take to protect themselves, their families, and older members of the community.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Older adults continue to be targeted by a wide range of financial fraud and confidence schemes, including romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes fraud, impersonation schemes, and other forms of financial exploitation.
During the virtual program, participants learned how to recognize warning signs, protect themselves and others, and report suspicious activity. The presentation emphasized the importance of staying informed and maintaining open communication with older family members, friends, and neighbors.
The program reinforced a clear message: Know the signs. Stop the crime.
Education as a Tool for Prevention
Programs such as this help provide community members with the knowledge needed to identify potential abuse or fraud before significant harm occurs. By increasing awareness and encouraging individuals to report suspicious behavior, communities can play an important role in protecting older adults from exploitation.
The event also highlighted the importance of treating older adults with dignity and respect while ensuring they have access to information and resources that can help them remain safe and independent.
Building a Safer Community Together
Through educational programs and partnerships with the FBI and other community organizations, FBITCAAA continues to advance its mission of building bridges and strengthening communities.
The July 30 virtual program provided another opportunity to connect law enforcement expertise with the public while promoting awareness, prevention, and community responsibility.
FBITCAAA remains committed to supporting programs that enhance public safety, educate residents, and help protect vulnerable members of the community.
Stronger Together: Protect. Respect. Support.
