The seminar included a discussion moderated by Mark Santelman with a panel of representatives from six financial institution in town, followed by a break and a quick discussion with Candas Schouvieller, from Oak Hills Living Center, and then a second panel of law enforcement personnel.

The audience had several questions as well as personal stories as victims of fraudulent scams. One question many had was what to do with fraudulent calls, texts, or emails. The response of the panels was to delete them right away, as scammers want victims to click or answer so they know there is a real person there to take advantage of.

“If it’s too good to be true, it’s too good to be true,” said Santelman.

Another scam to be aware of is bank representative scams. Scammers call your phone pretending to be a representative from your financial institution, if this happens, the panel suggests hanging up the phone and calling the number on the back of your bank card or calling your financial institution and ask for that person again.

Financial institution representatives for the seminar on fraud and fraud protection held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church this Wednesday.

“Some scammers say don’t tell anybody; that’s a huge red flag,” Crystal Altman said.

There were some questions about end of life care or personal representative scams, otherwise known as grandma-type scams. Santelman brought up the point that banks have a know your customer rule.

“Let them talk to you,” said Santelman, “my suggestion to you is to bring your adult child in, [bring in your personal representative] and introduce them, let them [your bankers] know who they are.”

The discussion continued with the topics of freezing credit, AI use, and the general intimidation that these scam artists create in victims. After a quick break, Schouvieller from Oak Hills Living Center spoke and giving an example of one scam.

“Scammers go after people who maybe a little lonely,” she said. “We are trained to pick up on signs at Oak Hills. This happens to all ages. Do not be afraid to speak up or say something.”

Financial institution representatives (left to right): Rebecca Hulke, Kari Steele, Chris Jensen, Rene Thordson, Sarah Mertz, Stacey Wolter, Melissa Braulick, Jean Schroeder and Crystal Altman.

The law enforcement panel began discussion with Dave Borchert, New Ulm chief of police.

“I encountered a lot of fraud when I was a detective. I was surprised at how many and most is only a fraction of what is reported. It’s gotten worse. It’s a daily thing. Hundreds of thousands of dollars a month,” said Borchert.

One huge take away from the seminar was suggested by Santelman.

“Take control,” he said. “It’s your money.”

Mark Santelman (standing) moderates a panel of law enforcement personnel on the topic of fraud prevention at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.