Local Vegas

Protect Seniors from Holiday Fraud

GBank is launching a hands-on scam education initiative for seniors in Southern Nevada amidst rising holiday fraud. Collaborating with the Independent Community Bankers of America, the program uses a game called Fraud Prevention Bingo to educate participants about various scams. Early education is emphasized to empower seniors and reduce financial losses during peak fraud activity.

Newsdesk R. Michael December 10, 2025 3 min read

create-a-highly-detailed-featured-image-for-a-blog-post

Holiday scams rise across Southern Nevada

LAS VEGAS – December 2025 — GBank Fraud Prevention Bingo Las Vegas is launching hands-on scam education for seniors as holiday fraud rises across the region. The Las Vegas-based community bank is partnering with the Independent Community Bankers of America to host a weeklong series of interactive events at senior living communities. The outreach focuses on helping seniors spot scams fast and take action before financial loss occurs. As holiday fraud activity increases each year, organizers timed the program to meet peak risk.

A senior woman smiling and holding a bingo card and a Halloween-themed pot holder, surrounded by two individuals in a community setting.

Interactive program replaces lectures with real-world learning

The program uses a game-based format called Fraud Prevention Bingo. Instead of numbers, each bingo card space lists a real scam seniors face today. These include IRS imposters, romance scams, tech support fraud, phishing attacks, and Medicare schemes. When players call out “Fraud Bingo,” they win prizes while learning how scams work. This approach keeps attention high and stress low. As a result, seniors absorb key warning signs faster. Organizers say the format also helps remove fear and confusion tied to financial crime.

Federal data shows the scale of elder fraud

Federal data shows why this program matters. In 2023, more than 101,000 seniors across the country reported fraud. Total losses reached about $3.4 billion. The average victim lost nearly $34,000. During the holidays, scammers increase activity using fake shipping alerts, government imposters, and tech support traps. Seniors often face higher exposure due to phone use and fixed incomes. Because of this, even one scam can cause lasting damage. Programs like GBank Fraud Prevention Bingo Las Vegas work to stop losses before they happen.

Local partnership delivers protection inside communities

GBank leads the program in partnership with the Independent Community Bankers of America. Together, they bring fraud education directly into senior communities. Residents do not need to travel or search for help. Bank educators guide each session and provide real examples based on active scam trends. Seniors can ask questions in real time and receive simple steps to follow if fraud occurs. This hands-on delivery builds trust and improves retention. It also allows faster response when residents report suspicious activity.

Bank leadership stresses the importance of early education

“At GBank, we believe financial literacy is critical for everyone and we are committed to supporting our senior community, especially as scams become more prevalent during the holiday season,” said Carol Mayorga, Senior Vice President and Operations Manager of GBank. “By sharing practical tips, we aim to empower seniors with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and their families. Preventing scams is not just about money. It’s about safeguarding independence and peace of mind when it matters most.” Her statement reflects the bank’s focus on long-term education rather than one-time awareness.

First Session set for North Las Vegas

The first session of GBank Fraud Prevention Bingo Las Vegas will take place Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. The event will be held at Madison Palms Senior Community at 3150 W. Ann Road in North Las Vegas. Additional sessions will take place at other senior living communities throughout the week. Admission is free for participating residents.

These events are not open to the public – they are only open to residents of the senior community

Holiday timing increases urgency and impact

The holidays bring emotional pressure, financial stress, and heavy online activity. Scammers use urgency, fear, and fake authority to trick victims into fast decisions. Therefore, experts stress that senior outreach must rise during this season. Education programs help residents slow down and verify messages before acting. They also encourage seniors to contact trusted family members and bank staff before sharing personal data. The outreach model used by GBank Fraud Prevention Bingo Las Vega s focuses first on confidence and then on prevention habits.

Community response expected to grow

As the events move through Southern Nevada, GBank expects increased interest from senior centers and housing communities. Organizers say early feedback shows strong demand for interactive learning. Many seniors prefer real conversation over printed handouts. Because of this, the program may expand beyond the initial holiday week. The long-term goal is to make scam prevention part of regular community education. Through that effort, GBank Fraud Prevention Bingo Las Vegas aims to reduce fraud losses year over year.