“CONSUMER UNIVERSITY” WELCOMES AREA SENIORS

(NORWALK) - Older adults in the Norwalk area are invited to hear from FBI agents, local police officers, and state experts about how to protect themselves from being a victim of fraud and scams, a problem that has escalated with the economic climate.

The Office of the Attorney General is presenting Consumer University, a free, half-day event in conjunction with RSVP of New Britain (the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program) and People’s United Bank. This is the second in a series of four Consumer University programs being offered to residents throughout Connecticut.

“From home improvement fraud to phony sweepstakes and fake checks, new scams are being dreamed up every day, and our goal is to teach seniors when to be suspicious, how to respond and how to protect themselves and their money,” Attorney General George Jepsen said.

The program is scheduled on Wednesday, Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Norwalk Senior Center, 11 Allen Road. Speakers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of the Attorney General, the Department of Consumer Protection and People’s United Bank will give presentations, followed by a luncheon discussion with officers from the Norwalk Police Department. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required.

Additionally, several state agencies and non-profit groups will have tables at the event to provide free literature and other materials, and to answer specific questions from participants.

“I’m pleased that our local RSVP office has been able to help organize and support this valuable program for our clients and older persons throughout the area,” said Teri Klein, Director of RSVP of Southwestern Connecticut.

The Attorney General acknowledged the Norwalk Senior Center for making its facility available, Katerina’s Catering & Deli for preparing the lunches and People’s United Bank for its support.

Attendance, including lunch, is free, but pre-registration is required by Oct. 26. Parking is very limited and car-pooling is strongly encouraged.

To pre-register, please call RSVP at 203-663-7332 no later than Wednesday, Oct. 26.