U.S. Attorney Office to present senior fraud prevention seminar in Du Quoin

DU QUOIN, Ill. - To educate seniors in southern Illinois on the latest scams targeting them online and over the phone, the U.S. Attorney's Office is partnering with the Du Quoin Public Library to host a fraud prevention seminar.

"Fraudsters are inundating our phones and computers with calls, texts and emails making deceitful claims like posing as federal agents to manipulate seniors and scare them into handing over their money," said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. "Unfortunately, in southern Illinois, we've prosecuted scammers who have defrauded seniors out of most of their life savings. To educate the public on the current fraud schemes and tips to avoid becoming a victim, prosecutors with experience charging these scammers will be in Du Quoin to give an interactive and informational presentation."

The presentation highlights information on online scams, fraud schemes targeting seniors and details on federal cases prosecuted in the Southern District of Illinois. The event will start at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 15 at the Du Quoin Public Library, located at 28 S. Washington St. in Du Quoin.

Attendees will receive tips to help detect scams and advice on how to contact law enforcement if they feel like they have been victimized by a scam.

The event is free and open to the public.