March 30, 2011

CFTC, National Futures Association and AARP Co-sponsor "Don't Lose Your Life Savings to Investment Fraud" during Money Smart Week

Washington, DC – The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), the National Futures Association (NFA), and AARP will co-sponsor a seminar that aims to provide individuals with the tools they need to help protect themselves and others from investment fraud. The seminar, Don't Lose Your Life Savings to Investment Fraud, will be held on Friday, April 8, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the AARP Illinois office. The office is located on 222 N. LaSalle, Suite 710 in Chicago, Ill. This event is one of more than 450 free classes, seminars and activities promoting financial education that will take place during Money Smart Week Chicago (April 2-9), coordinated by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.

“Educating yourself is the best first step to avoid becoming a victim of fraudulent investment schemes. Ask a lot of questions, and if you don’t get the answers you are seeking, don’t invest,” said CFTC Commissioner Michael V. Dunn.

During the seminar, representatives from the CFTC and NFA will provide attendees with advice on how to identify the warning signs and avoid investment fraud.

"The bad news is that investment fraud occurs all too often and affects people from all walks of life," said NFA Senior Vice President Karen Wuertz. "The good news is that there are some simple, practical steps everyone can take to avoid becoming a victim of a financial con artist."

“AARP is proud to co-sponsor this program with the National Futures Association and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission,” said Ryan Gruenenfelder, AARP Illinois Associate State Director. “For over 50 years, AARP has been fighting to protect the financial security of seniors. Unfortunately, older adults are prime targets for con-artists. We want to make sure that seniors have the information they need to protect their finances and avoid becoming a victim of fraud.”

Anyone wishing to attend the NFA/CFTC/AARP program should pre-register by calling (312) 458-3607.

For more information on Money Smart Week events visit http://www.moneysmartweek.org/Chicago.

Last Updated: April 14, 2011