Catch him if you can: Former con-man will offer tips on avoiding scams

The swindler-turned-security consultant who inspired the movie “Catch Me If You Can” is coming to the Triangle with tips on how to avoid scams and fraud, including identity theft.

Frank Abagnale is scheduled to speak at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19, at the Friday Center at UNC-Chapel Hill. The event is organized by AARP North Carolina, which Abagnale has ties to as an ambassador for the AARP Fraud Watch Network.

The Triangle will be Abagnale’s only stop in North Carolina, according to AARP spokesman Steve Hahn.

“AARP is very concerned about helping adults protect their assets,” Hahn said. “When it comes to fraud and scams, older adults are most often the targets. They tend to have more assets, more savings, and often times don’t have tools or techniques to get rid of unwanted callers or solicitations.”

Abagnale’s story of committing years of fraud, serving time in prison and later helping catch criminals became popular with the 2002 film “Catch Me If You Can.” Actor Leonardo DiCaprio portrayed Abagnale.

Space is limited for the event. To register, call AARP North Carolina at 866-389-5650.

This story was originally published August 9, 2017 at 3:14 PM with the headline "Catch him if you can: Former con-man will offer tips on avoiding scams."