Elderly scam protection classes offered in Coos County first, then throughout NH

Staff reports 5:40 a.m.
Tuesday, October 28, 2025 5:42 am

Elderly scam protection classes offered in Coos County first, then throughout NH

CONCORD - The state Department of Justice's Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation Unit will host a series of community presentations in Coos County this November as part of a "Protect Your Wallet, Protect Yourself" Scam Prevention Initiative.

The unit, in partnership with local law enforcement, will offer five free educational sessions designed to assist older adults (age 60 and older) to recognize, avoid, and respond to scams. As fraudulent schemes continue to target older adults with increasing frequency, the programs provide practical tools to safeguard personal and financial security. Volunteers will be available during the first session to assist participants with safe use and securing of mobile phones and devices.

And while all of the currently scheduled classes are in Coos County, anyone from New Hampshire is welcome to bring a session to your community. If interested contact Program Specialist Christa Clapp at Christa.G.Clapp@doj.nh.gov.

Session Schedules

November 12, 2025

  • 10:30 a.m. - McIntyre School Apartments, 16 Highland Street, Whitefield, NH
  • 1:30 p.m. - McKee Inn, 186 Main Street, Lancaster, NH
  • 4:00 p.m. - Groveton Housing, 6 Spring Street, Groveton, NH

November 17, 2025

  • 10:30 a.m. - Notre Dame Apartments, 411 School Street, Berlin, NH
  • 1:00 p.m. - Northern Lights Housing, 25 Success Street, Berlin, NH

All sessions are approximately 90 minutes in length. Older adults, caregivers, family members, and other community members concerned with combatting this growing problem are welcomed to attend.

Session Highlights:

  • Impostor Scams: Learn how to recognize suspicious calls and avoid common tactics used by fraudsters.
  • Common Payment Methods used by Scammers: Identify how money is transferred by gift cards, wire transfers, and cryptocurrency demands
  • Identity Fraud: Learn how to safeguard your personal identifying information
  • Steps for Reporting and Recovery: Guidance on contacting local authorities, banks, and support services if victimized

No enrollment is required.

This program builds on last year's success, when the Unit presented scam-prevention trainings in every New Hampshire county. In response to the continued rise in fraud targeting older adults, the Unit is increasing its outreach efforts to help residents recognize, avoid, and report scams before they suffer financial loss.