Strengthening Fraud Awareness in the Community
At FAIRWINDS, we work around the clock to help our members and the community to protect themselves from potential fraud and scams.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024. In addition, more than 1.1 million reports of identity theft were received by the FTC last year.
Each year, during the first full week of March, the Federal Trade Commission observes National Consumer Protection Week. Part of the annual observance is to raise awareness and educate consumers about protecting themselves from fraud, scams, and identity theft.
In recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, along with our year-round efforts to educate the communities we serve, here are some of the ways we are making a difference in fraud awareness and prevention.
Destroying Documents Safely and Securely
In late February, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and the Board of County Commissioners proclaimed March 2 – 8 as National Consumer Protection Week in Orange County, Florida. Throughout the week we partnered with the county to distribute valuable information and share tips with community members at several FAIRWINDS branch locations.
We wrapped up the week by joining forces with Orange County Government as the presenting sponsor of the county’s Shred-N-Go Drive Thru event. Residents were encouraged to attend and have their documents safely and securely destroyed at no cost. FAIRWINDS crewmembers volunteered by helping to destroy more than 9,000 pounds of personal documents, giving peace of mind to hundreds of attendees.
“The mayor’s proclamation for National Consumer Protection Week is an important reminder that we need to stay vigilant against frauds and scams every day,” says Adrian Kierulf-Velez, FAIRWINDS Community Relations Manager. “Shredding documents, whether at a secure community event or at home, is a simple step that can go a long way in keeping your identity safe.”
Partnering to Educate Our Communities
Protecting yourself and your identity goes beyond safely shredding documents. Combined with ongoing and extensive advice, alerts, and tips we provide to members, we also engage with local organizations year-round to make fraud prevention accessible and easy to understand.
One example is through our support of Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County. Future homeowners are required to complete in-person financial literacy courses, including how to protect against fraud and scams.
Magda De Mauro, FAIRWINDS crewmember and frequent instructor with Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County, reinforces how important fraud prevention education is for future homeowners.
“Protecting your identity when obtaining a mortgage is crucial,” says Magda. “Ensuring your personal information is secure not only safeguards your financial future but also provides peace of mind throughout the homebuying process.”
When it comes to financial literacy, fraud education is a vital component. “Showing how to set up account alerts, types of scams to look for, and monitoring your credit are just as important as understanding how to save and budget,” says Magda. “We’re setting up these future homeowners to succeed.”
Continuing Our Commitment
By participating in events like National Consumer Protection Week and engaging in year-round educational initiatives, we’re making a significant impact in raising awareness and preventing fraud. Says Adrian, “Remember, safeguarding your personal information is not just a one-time effort but a continuous commitment. By staying informed and vigilant, we can collectively reduce the risk of fraud and protect our community.”
You can also access resources on our website to educate and protect yourself from identity theft, scams, and more.