During his life on the other side of the law, Frank Abagnale Jr. assumed various identities and was a master check forger.

He became an airline pilot and a doctor.

These days, he’s helping people avoid becoming victims of con artists.

Abagnale, whose life inspired the 2002 film, “Catch Me If You Can,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, will host a free fraud education event, “Stealing Your Life” at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 12 at the Cobb Galleria Centre, 2 Galleria Parkway.

Doors open at 6:15 p.m.

John Sours, director of the Georgia Department of Law's Consumer Protection Unit, will also be on the program.

Abagnale, who also wrote, “The Art of the Steal,” eventually went on to help law enforcement nail other con artists. He will share his expertise and insight to help others learn how to spot and avoid scams and to safely use social media to protect their information and their families.

He is now the AARP Fraud Watch Network ambassador.

Identity theft is a major program and the information shared on social media and in every day life has made it easier for information to be stolen.

There is a victim of identity theft every two seconds in the United States, say experts. Older Americans account for as much as 13 percent of those victims, according to the 2015 Identity Theft Fraud Study by Javelin Strategy & Research. One reason is because the over-50 demographic represents one of the fastest growing users of internet and computer users, according to the FBI.

AARP Georgia has several initiatives to help state residents to learn about various tactics and how to protect themselves.

To register for the event and to get more tips go here or call 1-877-926-8300.

Related:

Beware of social media scams

Scam artists seek donations to help supposedly Syrian refugees

About the Author

Keep Reading

Foo Fighters closed out Shaky Knees 2024 at Central Park with extended versions of their biggest hits. The indie rock festival has moved to Piedmont Park for this weekend's event. (Ryan Fleisher for the AJC)

Credit: Ryan Fleisher

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com