On Wednesday, Feb. 26, from 5:30-7 p.m., local experts will partner with the Stillwater Public Library to present a free forum on common types of fraud and how community members can protect themselves and their assets. “Avoiding Fraud” will take place at the Stillwater Community Center, and registration is requested to help organizers plan appropriately for the event.
Three local experts will give short presentations on their areas of expertise, followed by a question-and-answer session.
CEO John W. Bartley of Community Escrow & Title Co. will discuss property fraud, Chad Kliewer, instructor at cdk Cybers, LLC, will talk about cybersecurity tips and Vice President Sharon Lewis from the Fraud Division at the Oklahoma Bankers Association will present on ways individuals can protect their money.
Librarian Emily States sees a need for fraud awareness in Stillwater.
“Scams continue to evolve and become more advanced,” States said. “Educating yourself so you know what to look out for and where to find reliable information is key.”
Citing the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), Sharon Lewis notes that in 2024, consumers and businesses lost more than $1 trillion globally to scams.
“We will talk about the latest fraud trends, including common platforms and tactics,” Lewis said. “Being knowledgeable about what scammers are up to can help you reduce your risk of being victimized.”
Bartley suggests that property and mortgage crime is also on the rise.
“Property fraud can hit you whether you are buying, selling or just living in your home,” Bartley said. For my part, I plan to cover common property scammers' tools and some practical steps you can take to protect your biggest investment.”
Last year, the Payne County Clerk’s office began offering a free property fraud alert system. States hopes that by offering programs like ‘Avoiding Fraud,’ the library can also help spread awareness about resources like this one that are available to the public.
“There are a lot of tools out there that can help with fraud awareness,” States said. “The is happy to help direct you to useful tools and resources.”
Kliewer, a local technology instructor and cybersecurity expert, suggests that technology is a common thread linking nearly all types of fraud.
“From phishing emails to fraudulent instant messages across online platforms, there are several ways that scammers may try to reach out to you,” Kliewer said. “I will share simple tips to help you safeguard your information and your sanity. You don’t need to be an expert to protect yourself online.”
The Friends of the Stillwater Public Library will provide light refreshments.
“Avoiding Fraud” is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending should register online at stillwaterok.gov/Library, in person at the library’s help desk or by calling (405) 372-3633 x8106.
The Stillwater Community Center is located at 315 W. 8th Ave. The forum will take place in room 116.