The Mesa County Sheriffs Office in Grand Junction, Colorado, hosts a free fraud prevention class today, November 20, 2025, to equip residents with tools against rising holiday scams. This one hour session at 9 a.m. focuses on spotting tricks and responding if targeted, as scammers ramp up efforts during peak shopping season.
Details of the Fraud Prevention Class
Residents can walk in without registration to the class held at the Mesa County Sheriffs Office on 215 Rice Street. The event runs from 9 to 10 a.m. and covers key topics like identifying common fraud types and steps to take after falling victim. Organizers stress that these sessions aim to build community awareness before scams cause real harm.
Local investigators lead the discussion, drawing from recent cases in the area. With holiday shopping in full swing, the timing feels urgent for families and seniors who often face the most pressure from fraudsters. Past classes in October drew steady crowds, showing strong interest in practical advice.
Common Holiday Scams Targeting Coloradans
Scammers hit hard this time of year, using tactics that prey on excitement and haste. In Colorado alone, reports show over 290 million unwanted scam calls from January to September 2025, a six year high that signals growing threats. Nationally, a recent survey found 89 percent of adults faced or got hit by holiday related fraud in the past year, up from previous seasons.
Here are some top scams to watch:
- Fake package delivery texts that lead to phishing sites stealing personal data.
- Cryptocurrency demands from supposed tech support claiming your device has a virus.
- Bogus charity appeals via email or calls, especially after big news events like natural disasters.
- Gift card scams where fraudsters pose as relatives in trouble and ask for quick payments.
- AI powered deepfakes in video calls or ads mimicking trusted brands for fake deals.
These tricks often involve urgent language to rush decisions, making it vital to pause and verify.
Why Scams Are Surging in 2025
Fraud cases climbed sharply this year, with over 311 million stolen accounts on dark web markets, 63 percent tied to retail sites. Experts link the rise to advanced tools like artificial intelligence that create convincing fake websites and voices. In Mesa County, local reports highlight text scams from fake government offices and overpayment schemes in online sales.
One investigator noted that much stolen money flees the country fast, limiting recovery options. This pushes focus on prevention over reaction. Recent events, like a spike in smishing attacks after Black Friday previews, show scammers adapt quickly to trends. Colorado saw similar patterns, with residents reporting more bitcoin related frauds amid crypto hype.
| Scam Type | Key Signs | Potential Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing Emails | Unsolicited links from “banks” or “stores” | Identity theft, up to $1,000 per incident |
| Fake Charities | Pressure for instant donations via wire | Hundreds in untraceable funds |
| Delivery Alerts | Texts with tracking numbers to click | Access to accounts, average $500 hit |
| Tech Support Calls | Warnings of viruses demanding payment | Software installs, $200 to $2,000 |
| Gift Card Demands | Urgent family emergency stories | Full card value, often $100 to $500 |
This table outlines risks based on 2025 data, helping readers spot dangers early.
Expert Tips to Stay Safe This Holiday Season
Prevention starts with simple habits that block scammers at the door. Use credit cards for online buys since they offer better protection than debit or gift cards. Always check website security with “https” and a padlock icon before entering info.
Enable multi factor authentication on accounts to add extra layers. Set up alerts for unusual transactions and avoid clicking links in texts or emails; go directly to official sites instead. For calls, hang up and redial known numbers to confirm claims.
Educators in the class will dive deeper into these steps, including how to report incidents to authorities. Building these routines not only saves money but also reduces stress during busy times. Recent advice from national groups echoes this, urging shoppers to research sellers and ignore too good to be true deals.
Building a Scam Free Community
Events like todays class foster stronger neighborhoods by sharing knowledge and stories. As fraud evolves with tech, ongoing education keeps everyone ahead. In 2025, with economic strains pushing more online deals, these efforts matter more than ever.
Readers, join the conversation by sharing your scam stories or tips in the comments below. Spread the word on social media to help friends and family stay safe this holiday season.
