The Perfect Scam
AARP
AARP’s weekly podcast The Perfect ScamSM tells the stories of people who find themselves the target of a scam. Host Bob Sullivan introduces listeners to those who have experienced ...
Episode list
221
June 13, 2025
28 min
Archive Episode: Courage of Steele, Part 2: How One Man Fought Back Against His Abusive Caregiver
In part 2, as 72-year-old Steve Steele is released from jail, not only can he hardly stand or walk, but he is worried about how he will recover the property stolen by Elizabeth, th...
moreJune 6, 2025
23 min
Archive Episode: Courage of Steele, Part 1: Housekeeper Turned Caregiver Steals Homes
In this 2021 episode, after 72-year-old Steve Steele’s life partner passes away, his housekeeper, Elizabeth, offers to work as his caregiver. Over time, Elizabeth takes over Steve’...
moreMay 30, 2025
51 min
Reverse Mortgage Scam Leaves Chicago Families Fighting to Save Homes
Longtime homeowners on Chicago’s West Side trust Mark Diamond to help them access funds and carry out necessary home repairs. However, they are often unaware that they are entering...
moreMay 23, 2025
44 min
The NFT Scam Targeting Artists
Douglas is enjoying a second career as an artist, selling his paintings online and in gallery shows. People occasionally ask about non-fungible tokens (NFTs) of his work. Still, he...
moreMay 16, 2025
55 min
Lost But Not Found: The Lost Pet Scam
When Chloe’s mom experiences a medical emergency, Chloe rushes to be by her side. Amid the stress and chaos of the following days, her mother’s cat, Percy, slips out one evening. C...
moreMay 9, 2025
50 min
Serial Scammer Targets Hockey League Parents, Part 2
In part two, law enforcement narrows in on Kota Youngblood and his scheme to steal millions of dollars from neighbors and fellow hockey league parents. His cruel lies have many bel...
more