“It is a privilege to partner with the Attorney General’s office to raise awareness for senior citizens and families about fraud protection,” said Congresswoman Walorski.  “These important workshops highlight different scams that commonly target citizens to prevent identity theft before it happens and keep our private information safe.”

Congresswoman Visits: Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (in yellow) visited Winamac Wednesday, along with Linda Gurgel from the state's Attorney General's Office (standing left) to update local senior citizens on the latest scams and ways to protect their personal information from identity theft. The event was held as part of a district-wide tour to meet with senior groups and constituents in all 10 counties of the Second District.

She was joined at the workshop by Linda Gurgel, Outreach Services Specialist with the Attorney General's Office who shared information on the importance of protecting personal and financial information from fraud.   

Walorski told those gathered that legislation is being developed on the federal level, with bi-partisan effort, to further protect citizens from fraud and identity thieves.

She also emphasized that consumers beware of "healthcare scammers" offering fradulent health plans as portions of the Affordable Healthcare Act (Obama Care) begin to take effect. She warned that any phone caller who asks for a Social Security number - for a healthcare offer or any other reason - is a scammer and should be reported to the Indiana Attorney General's office.

While serving in the State Legislature, Walorski authored bipartisan legislation to require companies to encrypt consumers’ personal data and notify individuals of any security breaches (HB 1101), preventing identity theft on the state level.  Moving forward, Walorski plans to support future reforms in Congress to keep up with evolving technology and ensure consumers are fairly protected from fraud.

“Most people have either been the victim of a scam, or know someone who was.  Our goal is to provide citizens with useful information and resources they can use to protect themselves against frauds and scams.” said Gurgel.

She recommended that citizens register with the state and national "Do Not Call" lists, if they have not alread;y done so. (state: 1.888.834.9969 or www.IndianaConsumer.com - and national: 1.888.382.1222 or www.DoNotCall.gov)

She also provided materials on consumer protection services, credit bureaus and services, and common scams. Most of these materials are also available by visiting www.IndianaConsumer.com.

In addition to her Washington, D.C. office, Walorski has offices in Mishawaka (202 Lincolnway East, Mishawaka, IN 46544; phone 574-204-2645) and in Rochester (709 Main Street, Rochester, IN 46975, phone 574-780-1330). Her website is www.Walorski.House.gov.