Stop the Scammers logo

About the Stop the Scammers Tour

Stop the Scammers is a free fraud prevention program from the Iowa Department of Insurance & Financial Services (IDIFS) and AARP Iowa. Each year, the Stop the Scammers Tour travels across Iowa, bringing real-world tips and tools to communities so people can spot scams, avoid them, and know how to report them.

Con artists target people aged 60 and older, and fraud costs older Americans billions of dollars every year. Scams are also evolving, from AI impersonation to gift card schemes. The goal of Stop the Scammers is to make sure Iowans hear about these tactics from a trusted source before a scammer reaches them.

Our team of fraud fighters has compiled real-world tips and tools to help protect you and your loved ones. By learning how common fraud schemes work, you can avoid them, report them, and help others do the same. Attendees leave ready to take steps toward a safer future and join the network of Iowa Fraud Fighters.

Stops each year

Iowans reached

Counties visited in 2026

Fraud investigations opened in 2026

Upcoming Event

Stop the Scammers Holiday Dinner

  • Date: November 19, 2026
  • Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
  • Location: Prairie Meadows Events & Conference Center, Altoona
  • Calendar: Events

Join Iowa Fraud Fighters and the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services for a free Stop the Scammers dinner and an evening of real discussions about the scams that hit hardest during the holiday season.

The dinner is free, but registration is required.

Learn More

On the Road Across Iowa

Stop the Scammers events bring Iowans together in their own communities for a free, practical look at how fraud works. A member of the Iowa Fraud Fighters team walks through the scams con artists are using right now, from AI impersonation to gift card schemes, and shows attendees the red flags to watch for. View and download the Stop the Scammers workbook on our workbook page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Stop the Scammers for, and is there an age requirement?

Stop the Scammers is for all Iowans. Con artists often target people aged 60 and older, so the events are built with older adults in mind, but anyone who wants to learn how to spot and avoid fraud is welcome.

Does it cost anything to attend?

No. Every Stop the Scammers event is free.

Do I need to register, and how?

Yes, reservations are required. Check the Iowa Fraud Fighters events calendar for details.

What does the presentation cover, and how long does it last?

The presentation covers the scams Iowans are seeing right now, including investment fraud, imposter scams, cryptocurrency fraud, Medicare schemes, AI impersonation, and gift card scams. You'll learn the warning signs, how to avoid each scam, and how to report one. Typically 1-2 hours long.

Will food be provided?

Many events include a meal.

How do I find out when the tour is coming to my area?

Check the Iowa Fraud Fighters events calendar, and subscribe to the Fraud Fighters newsletter for announcements.

Can my organization, church, or community group host or request a Stop the Scammers presentation?

Contact the Iowa Department of Insurance & Financial Services through the Contact Us page, or call (515)654-6600, to ask about bringing Iowa Fraud Fighters and the Stop the Scammers Tour to your group.

Who runs the program?

Stop the Scammers is a joint effort of the Iowa Department of Insurance & Financial Services, the Iowa Attorney General's Office, and AARP Iowa.

What should I do if I think I've been targeted by a scam, or have already lost money?

Stop communicating with the scammer, and contact your bank or credit card company right away if money or account information was involved. Then report it. Call the Iowa Insurance Division's Fraud Bureau at (877)955-1212, the Iowa Attorney General's Office at (888)777-4590, or your local law enforcement. Reporting quickly gives investigators the best chance to stop a scam in progress. Visit our Report Fraud page to learn more.

Is the presentation accessible (wheelchair access, large-print materials)?

Yes, Stop the Scammers events are wheelchair accessible. We want everyone to be able to attend.

Can family members or caregivers attend with me?

Yes, family members and caregivers are welcome, and fraud is often caught when a loved one speaks up. Caregivers can also find tips on the Senior Caregivers page.

This event is hosted by the Iowa Department of Insurance & Financial Services. Any information you provide to the host organization will be governed by its privacy policy and procedures.