Iowa Fraud Fighters Seminar to Help Residents Recognize Scams

Decorah Vikings win, City Council votes, New Referenda on the ballot — we're the one telling Decorah's story. Donate now. DECORAH — Frauds and scams are on the rise. According to FBI data released in April 2025, Americans lost $16.6 billion to fraudulent schemes in 2024, a 33% increase from 2023. To help combat the growing threat, Northeast Iowa RSVP, The Highlands, Decorah Bank & Trust and the Iowa Insurance Division will present a free Iowa Fraud Fighters seminar. "We are pleased to present this important fraud prevention message to people in Northeast Iowa," said Deana Hageman, director of RSVP. "We hope these presentations will help educate Iowans on common scams and arm them with tools and tips to prevent fraud." The seminar is designed to help Iowans, especially older adults, recognize and report fraud, protect their savings and avoid fraudulent investment offers. The program also introduces the "Double-check before you invest" initiative and shares real-life stories of individuals who lost their life savings to scams. The public is invited to attend. The upcoming seminar will be held: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026Vennehjem, 1102 Nordic Drive, Decorah The Iowa Fraud Fighters seminar is presented by Northeast Iowa RSVP volunteers in partnership with local sponsors. Northeast Iowa RSVP connects volunteers ages 55 and older with service opportunities at nonprofit organizations in Allamakee, Chickasaw, Clayton, northern Fayette, Howard and Winneshiek counties. For more information, contact Deana Hageman at 563-277-5181 or email rsvp@decorahlibrary.org. Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.