Protecting What Matters Most: Defending Clients Against Scams and Identity Theft

Americans lose $13 billion to scams and identity theft each year.  Anyone can be a scam victim.  This presentation will explain why our brains are wired to be victimized by scams, where we are vulnerable and the steps to take to protect yourself and your clients from becoming scam or identity theft victims.

Competency Level: Intermediate
FPA Competency: Client Communication & Care, Critical Thinking
CFP Board Topic: Psychology of Financial Planning
CFP Board CE Credit Hours: TBD

• Identify the cognitive biases and emotional triggers (such as urgency, fear, and authority) that scammers exploit to bypass rational thinking.
• Explain why anyone, regardless of age or intelligence, can fall victim to sophisticated psychological manipulation.
• Recognize common red flags and warning signs across modern scam channels, including phishing emails, spoofed phone calls, and deepfake technologies.