Naperville Police Host Scam Awareness Webinar on Feb. 26

The Naperville Police Department is hosting a scam awareness webinar at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 26, to educate citizens about the latest scams being used to defraud Naperville residents and how to protect themselves.

Naperville residents reported losing nearly $5.5 million to scams in 2024. Victims ranged in age from 15 to 91, emphasizing the need for residents of all ages to pay attention to the red flags of various scams. A Naperville Police financial crimes detective and crime prevention specialist will present the most commonly reported scams, explain current trends involving cryptocurrency, and identify red flags that can help residents recognize a possible scam.

The webinar will begin at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 26. It is free and open to the public. Registration is not required. A link to the webinar is available at www.naperville.il.us/ScamAwareness or by clicking here. Residents who do not have the Zoom application downloaded on their device will be able to view the webinar using their internet browser by clicking the “Join from your browser” option. A recording of the webinar will be made available on the City’s website after-the-fact for those who are not able to attend but are interested in learning more about this critical topic.

“Residents are being targeted regularly by scammers through phone calls, text messages, emails and even computer pop-ups,” said Police Chief Jason Arres. “Scammers are always changing their tactics, so it’s critical to keep up with current trends and learn what to look for when you’re communicating with someone that might tip you off to a scam.”

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 150,000 people. This vibrant, thriving city consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children and retire. The city is home to acclaimed public and parochial schools, the best public library system in the country, an array of healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment options. The city’s diversified employer base features high technology firms, retailers and factories, as well as small and home-based businesses. Residents also enjoy world-class parks, diverse worship options, the opportunity to serve on several City boards and commissions, a thriving downtown shopping and dining area, a renowned outdoor history museum known as Naper Settlement and an active civic community. For more information, please visit our website at www.naperville.il.us.