Stop, Spot and Report Scams: Protecting What Matters Most
There is a reason scam tactics continue to evolve: they work. Not because people are careless. Not because they are uninformed. Scammers succeed because they know how to create urgency, build trust, and reach people in moments when they may be distracted, concerned, or simply trying to help someone they care about.
For many older adults and families in Hastings, financial loss is only part of the story. Often, the deeper loss is confidence. After a scam attempt, people may begin to second-guess phone calls, emails, text messages, and even legitimate requests from loved ones.
That is why Benedictine Living Community-Regina is partnering with the Better Business Bureau® (BBB) to offer an important community presentation focused on helping older adults and their families recognize scams before they become costly mistakes. This event reflects Benedictine’s commitment to providing trusted, educational resources that support safety, dignity, and peace of mind.
Why Scam Awareness Matters More Than Ever
Today’s scams are more sophisticated than many people realize. What once looked suspicious can now appear convincing. Scammers often impersonate family members, banks, government agencies, online retailers, and other trusted organizations. They rely on fear, urgency, and emotion to pressure people into acting before they have time to pause and verify.
Many of the scams reported to the Better Business Bureau involve situations that feel familiar, including:
- A grandchild who urgently needs money
- A text message claiming there is a problem with an account
- A sweepstakes notification announcing a prize
- An online purchase that never arrives
- An email requesting immediate action
The common thread is simple: scammers want people to react before they verify.
What You’ll Learn at This Free Community Presentation
During this one-hour presentation, attendees will receive practical information they can use right away to help protect themselves and the people they love.
Topics will include:
- Common scams targeting older adults, including grandparent scams, online purchase scams, and phishing attempts
- The psychological tactics scammers use to gain trust and create urgency
- Warning signs that deserve a closer look
- Resources available through the Better Business Bureau when something does not feel right
- Steps individuals can take to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim
The goal is not to create fear. It is to build confidence. Many people leave these presentations with greater peace of mind, knowing they are not alone and that the warning signs are often easier to recognize once they know what to look for.
Event Details
Benedictine Living Community-Regina invites older adults, family members, caregivers, and community members to attend:
Stop, Spot and Report Scams
Presented in partnership with the Better Business Bureau® (BBB)
Thursday, July 16
2:30–3:30 p.m.
Benedictine Living Community-Regina Community Room
1008 First Street West
Hastings, MN 55033
This event is free and open to the public.
One Conversation Could Make a Difference
Most people know someone who has received a suspicious phone call, text message, or email. Many also know someone who has lost money because a scammer sounded believable.
That is why this presentation is worth sharing.
Invite a friend. Encourage a neighbor to attend. Share the information with a parent, adult child, or caregiver. What someone learns in a single hour could help protect their finances, confidence, and quality of life for months or even years to come.
To reserve your seat, RSVP using the button below.
The strongest defense against a scam is often knowing what to look for before it happens.