Anyone can become a target of a scam. In 2025, the FBI received reports totaling more than $20 billion in financial losses from victims. But those numbers are likely much higher as many people don’t report being victims of fraud, and often feel embarrassed and ashamed to tell their families, report it to the FBI or share their stories.

There always will be criminal minds at work, so it’s important to become armed with knowledge and girded with fortitude to resist the temptation to answer phone calls and emails.  And perhaps attend Moving Seniors Forward’s Fraud & Scam Prevention Seminar 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at United Methodist Church Westlake Village at Alton Hall, 1049 S. Westlake Blvd., in Westlake Village. Debbie Deem, a retired FBI Victim Specialist with more than 40 years of working with crime victims, is the keynote speaker. She will teach you how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud and scams. You’ll also hear from Ventura County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Det. Jason Cashmark and Det. Andrew Van Gundy.

The program will include breakfast. You’ll meet members of Moving Seniors Forward’s Community Resource Group and music accompaniment by pianist Andy Howe. There also will be drawings at $5 per ticket. Seats may be reserved by calling 805-558-8157. A donation to support America Supporting Americans – Greater Conejo Valley Chapter is suggested at $30 per couple or $20 per individual.

Most Common Scam

“Tech Support” scam in which you receive an unsolicited  (you didn’t ask for any tech support) email stating that your computer has malware and needs updating. If you click on their instructions to “make your computer safe”, they can then download an application on your computer that can record your keystrokes which can then pirate or copy passwords that you may type in for banking, or it can allow them to take over your computer and access your personal accounts by “looking like you” to your computer.

If you can’t make this event, Camarillo Health Care District offers one-on-one appointments with Debbie Deem the fourth Wednesday of every month at noon or 1 p.m., or join a group session at 2 p.m. She will provide resources, support and information. One-on-one appointments are available at noon and 1 p.m., and walk-ins may be seen 2 to 3 p.m. For an appointment, call 805-388-1952. Coaching takes place at 3639 Las Posas Road, in Camarillo.

Topics may include:

• Romance imposters
• Lottery and sweepstakes
• Crypto – investments
• Fake grandparent or family emergency
• Government, bank or business imposters

What you can expect from an appointment with Debbie

• Referrals to agencies and organizations that can help;
• Information and handouts to help you understand various types of fraud and scams, how they work and how to protect yourself; and
• Emotional support with no judgment, blame or shame.

To make an individual appointment, call 805-388-1952, or see the Walk-In schedule to access resources.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES