Scam Jams and Beyond: Innovative Community Tactics to Stop Fraud
Local governments are on the front lines of public safety, yet one of the most pervasive threats—scams targeting vulnerable populations—often receives insufficient attention in municipal management strategies. While law enforcement agencies are well-versed in combating physical crimes, digital and telephonic fraud demand a different set of tools. These scams, ranging from phishing emails to impersonation calls, exploit emotional vulnerabilities and technological gaps to defraud citizens, especially older adults. As these crimes increase in sophistication, municipalities must adapt their policies, outreach, and internal coordination to protect residents effectively.
Fraud targeting vulnerable individuals is not a peripheral issue. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), Americans over 60 lost more than $3.4 billion to scams in 2023 alone, marking a significant rise from previous years1. These schemes are not only growing in frequency but also in complexity, often involving international criminal networks and advanced technology. While federal agencies can investigate cross-border fraud, local law enforcement is typically the first point of contact for victims. Municipalities must therefore treat scam prevention and response as a central component of community safety.
The psychological tactics scammers use are well-documented. They manipulate emotions such as fear, urgency, love, and trust to deceive targets into sharing personal information or transferring money. A study from the Journal of Financial Crime found that many older adults are specifically vulnerable due to cognitive decline, social isolation, and unfamiliarity with digital tools2. For example, the “grandparent scam” involves a fraudster pretending to be a distressed relative in need of immediate financial help. These methods work not because the victims are careless, but because the scams are designed to bypass logical reasoning in moments of emotional stress.
The emotional and psychological aftermath of being scammed can be just as damaging as the financial loss. Victims often experience embarrassment, self-doubt, and even depression. In some cases, individuals withdraw from social activities or avoid seeking help out of shame. This isolation exacerbates existing vulnerabilities and makes them more susceptible to future scams. Researchers at the University of Southern California noted that repeated exposure to fraud can lead to long-term anxiety and a diminished sense of personal agency3. These outcomes place a burden not only on victims but also on municipal health and social services.
Municipal law enforcement agencies must adopt a multi-faceted approach to address this issue effectively. First, education campaigns should be embedded into local community engagement efforts. Traditional methods like bulletin boards and pamphlets remain valuable, especially for older populations. However, more interactive and engaging formats can increase retention and participation. For instance, “Scam Jams”—community events where residents learn about current fraud tactics—have been successfully implemented in cities like Denver and San Diego. These workshops often include role-playing scenarios, Q&A sessions with law enforcement, and materials that attendees can share with others.
Tailoring communication strategies to specific demographics is essential. Research from the Public Administration Review indicates that targeted messaging is more effective than generalized warnings4. Seniors may respond better to printed newsletters or radio announcements, while younger adults might benefit from short videos shared via municipal social media accounts. Municipalities should also distribute materials through trusted intermediaries such as libraries, religious organizations, and neighborhood associations. These groups have established relationships with the community and can serve as credible messengers.
Second, municipal governments must prioritize accessible reporting mechanisms. Victims are often deterred by confusing processes or fear of being blamed. Law enforcement officers should be trained not only to investigate fraud but also to respond empathetically. Municipalities like Portland, Oregon, have implemented elder fraud liaison officers within their police departments. These individuals specialize in handling fraud cases involving older adults, providing a consistent point of contact and guiding victims through the process of recovery and prevention5.
Simplifying the reporting process is another critical task. Online portals should be easy to navigate, with clear language and instructions. Hotline numbers must be widely advertised and staffed with trained personnel. In-person options should remain available for those uncomfortable with digital technology. Local governments can also partner with state and federal agencies to ensure that reports are appropriately routed for investigation and prosecution.
Third, municipalities should use data analytics to identify local scam trends and adjust their responses accordingly. By analyzing complaint data, law enforcement can determine which types of fraud are most prevalent in their area and which populations are being targeted. This data-driven approach allows for more efficient deployment of resources. A study in the Journal of Urban Affairs emphasized the importance of integrating crime analytics into municipal planning to improve public safety outcomes6.
Technology can also be used to disseminate timely alerts. Many cities already have emergency notification systems in place. These platforms can be adapted to include scam alerts, warning residents about ongoing fraud attempts in real time. Alerts can be sent via text message, email, or automated phone calls. This not only prevents additional victims but also demonstrates a proactive stance by local government, reinforcing public trust.
Partnerships with local businesses and financial institutions are another key strategy. Banks and credit unions often detect suspicious transactions before they are completed. Municipalities can formalize protocols with these institutions to flag potential fraud and coordinate with law enforcement. In some cities, training bank employees to recognize signs of elder financial abuse has led to direct intervention and prevention of losses7.
Finally, municipalities should invest in ongoing training for public employees. From utility workers to clerks, many municipal staff interact with residents who may be at risk. Providing these employees with basic fraud awareness training enables them to recognize warning signs and refer individuals to appropriate resources. This whole-of-government approach ensures that fraud prevention is not confined to the police department but is integrated across municipal services.
Scams that exploit emotional and technological vulnerabilities are not just a personal risk; they are a public concern that affects the well-being of entire communities. Municipal governments have both the responsibility and the capacity to lead on this issue. Through education, accessible reporting, targeted outreach, and inter-agency collaboration, cities can build a robust defense against fraud. As scam tactics continue to evolve, so too must the strategies that local governments use to protect their residents.
Federal Bureau of Investigation. “2023 Elder Fraud Report.” Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), 2024. https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2023_Elder_Fraud_Report.pdf.
Button, Mark, Chris Lewis, and Jessica Tapley. “Fraud Typologies and Victims of Fraud.” Journal of Financial Crime 21, no. 3 (2014): 318–337. https://doi.org/10.1108/JFC-02-2013-0013.
Lichtenberg, Peter A., et al. “Financial Exploitation Is Associated with Poorer Mental and Physical Health in Older Adults.” Clinical Gerontologist 39, no. 2 (2016): 97–115. https://doi.org/10.1080/07317115.2015.1120256.
Kim, Seong Soo, and James R. Thompson. “Public Trust, Risk Communication and Community Engagement in Local Government.” Public Administration Review 78, no. 3 (2018): 452–464. https://doi.org/10.1111/puar.12893.
National White Collar Crime Center. “Best Practices in Elder Fraud Prevention.” 2021. https://www.nw3c.org/research/elder-fraud-best-practices.pdf.
Weisburd, David, and Anthony A. Braga. “Hot Spots Policing as Crime Prevention.” Journal of Urban Affairs 38, no. 5 (2016): 543–563. https://doi.org/10.1111/juaf.12200.
DeLiema, Marguerite, Marti DeLiema, and Martha Deevy. “Preventing Financial Fraud Against Older Adults.” Stanford Center on Longevity Research Brief, 2017. https://longevity.stanford.edu/preventing-financial-fraud-against-older-adults/.