GAPC EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

Presented by Nicole Rios – Crime Prevention Liaison at PCSO’s Public Relations Bureau

Fear-Based scams exploit a person’s anxiety, creating a sense of urgency and panic. Scammers are individuals who use deception and intimidation tactics to trick people into surrendering personal information for financial gain. Common Scams include phishing, romance scams, impersonation, lottery/prize scams.

Professional Guardians will be able to:

1. Recognize the different scams that have become more prevalent with the advancing of technology.

2. Understand the common fraud tactics that include digital deception, social engineering, and broad targeting that create a false sense of urgency, fear, or excitement to force immediate action.

3. Become familiarized with Scams, the tactics used by scammers, and what to do if they feel as though they are being scammed.

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WEDNESDAY - March 11, 2026

Networking | 11:30 a.m. to Noon

Lunch and Program | Noon to 1:00 p.m.

Location: Palms of Largo, Plaza Building, 385 Alt Keene Road, Largo

THE MEETING WILL ONLY BE HELD IN PERSON.

A VIRTUAL OPTION IS NOT AVAILABLE.

SPACE IS LIMITED TO 60 RESERVATIONS.

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REGISTRATION

• Members - FREE (Included as a benefit of membership)
  

• Guardian guests - FREE

• Non-Guardian Guests are invited to attend one meeting before submitting an application for membership. Email GAPC HERE for more information or to register. Non-guardian guests - $25.00 

All education programs will apply for one (1) hour CE for Professional Guardians

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PROGRAM SPONSORS

SPEAKER BIO

Nicole Rios was born and raised in New York City. She served as an NYPD Officer for six years before moving to North Carolina to become a Civil Rights and Title IX Investigator. In January of 2025, Nicole moved to the Tampa Bay area and briefly worked as an investigator for the Office of Inspector General before getting hired with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.