Local residents will have the opportunity to learn how to protect themselves from financial scams at an upcoming community seminar titled “You’re Being Scammed!!” The free event is scheduled for Thursday, March 27, from 6 PM to 7:30 PM at the Minden Civic Center, located at 520 Broadway Street in Minden.
The seminar will feature a panel of experts, including Tracy L. Campbell from Meriwether Wealth & Planning, Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker, Minden Police Chief Jared McIver, and Jack E. Byrd Jr. from b1BANK. A special guest, an FBI field agent, will also be in attendance to provide insight into the latest scam tactics and prevention strategies.
The event, which follows a similar seminar held in August, aims to educate the public on recognizing scams and avoiding financial loss. Experts will discuss how scammers target victims and offer practical advice to stay protected.
“Many intelligent, well-educated people fall for scams, and it’s important to remember that embarrassment should never prevent reporting these crimes,” Chief McIver said at last year’s event. “No amount is too small to report, as any piece of information could help law enforcement track down scammers.”
Byrd previously shared alarming statistics, noting that in a two-month period last year, Minden-area scams accounted for nearly $250,000 in losses. Sheriff Parker also recounted a case where a scammer used the dark web to obtain personal information and successfully defraud a victim of $60,000.
The event is free, but seating is limited to 400 people. Dinner will be provided for attendees. An RSVP is required, and interested individuals can sign up by calling 318-377-0523 (b1BANK).