Lawrence-area residents can learn how to keep their investments safe from scammers at a free program Oct. 9.

The FINRA Investor Education Foundation, AARP Kansas, the Office of the Kansas Securities Commissioner and the Kansas University School of Law are hosting a program on outsmarting investment fraud that will be open to the public. Experts from the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission and AARP Foundation will conduct the session.

The event will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont St. Space is limited. RSVP by Oct. 7 by calling 877-926-8300 toll free or visiting aarp.cvent.com/KS-Inv-Fraud-Wkshop-Lawrence. Refreshments will be provided at no charge.

Participants will learn about the persuasion tactics commonly used by criminals, along with the simple steps they can take to protect their hard-earned nest egg.

Investment fraud affects thousands of Americans and accounts for billions in lost savings every year. People age 50 and over with money to invest are favored targets for fraud. The profile of a typical victim is someone who is financially knowledgeable and self-reliant in making financial decisions and has a college education and above-average income.