SLO County D.A. Hosts Fraud Prevention Workshop

Seminars cover growing investment scams and real estate fraud schemes targeting local residents

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:31pm

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The San Luis Obispo County District Attorney's Office held a series of fraud prevention seminars on Friday, highlighting the growing threat of investment scams and real estate fraud in the region. The workshops featured real-life case studies and practical advice to help protect residents from financial exploitation.

Why it matters

Financial fraud schemes have been on the rise nationwide, with investment scams and real estate fraud among the most common. The SLO County D.A.'s proactive approach to educating the public on these issues aims to empower local residents and businesses to safeguard their assets.

The details

At the forum, the D.A.'s Office detailed a complex case where scammers overseas posed as a woman seeking a relationship, eventually convincing the victim to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency. In another common scheme, fraudsters impersonate local property owners and list homes for sale using forged documents. Attendees also learned credit card security tips, such as prioritizing 'tap to pay' or mobile wallet options over swiping to avoid skimming devices.

  • The fraud prevention seminars were held on Friday, January 30, 2026.

The players

San Luis Obispo County District Attorney's Office

The local law enforcement agency that organized the fraud prevention workshops to educate the community.

Ken Goodwin

A San Luis Obispo resident who attended the event, citing financial concerns as a motivation.

Steve Yungbluth

A San Luis Obispo resident who attended the event, expressing concerns about real estate fraud impacting his property.

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What they’re saying

“Financial is always a concern for everybody, I think.”

— Ken Goodwin, San Luis Obispo Resident

“Real estate fraud, a lot of it. I have some property, and, you know, you have to be on the ball all the time.”

— Steve Yungbluth, San Luis Obispo Resident

What’s next

The District Attorney's Office plans to continue hosting similar fraud prevention workshops throughout San Luis Obispo County to reach more residents and businesses.

The takeaway

The growing prevalence of investment scams and real estate fraud in the region underscores the importance of public education and awareness campaigns to help protect local communities from financial exploitation. The SLO County D.A.'s proactive approach sets an example for other jurisdictions facing similar challenges.