As the baby boomers retire and our seniors become a larger segment of our society, they are becoming a greater target for exploitation.

The growth of the internet, email and social media has increased convenience for consumers, but it also has expanded the reach of scam artists.

The combination of a growing senior population and this enhanced outreach makes it even more important for older southwest Michigan residents to be mindful of phone and email scams.

Sadly, the financial and physical abuse of seniors is one of the fastest growing crimes in our state. That is why I supported a comprehensive, bipartisan package recently signed by the governor that gives law enforcement agencies better tools to protect our seniors.

I urge all Michigan families to look out for fraudulent activities and to report any suspected scams to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division by calling 1-877-765-8388 or by visiting its website at www.michigan.gov/ag. There you can click on “Complaints” to learn how to file a complaint online or by U.S. mail.

I also encourage any southwest Michigan senior to attend an informational meeting Friday at the Buchanan Senior Center, 131 S. Oak St. Michigan state trooper Rob Herbstreith will present his “Elderly Scam Awareness” program beginning at 1 p.m. The program is free and open to all. Contact the center at (269) 695-7119.

Any resident who believes he or she has been a victim of a scam and has experienced trouble contacting the attorney general’s office is welcome to contact my office at (517) 373-6960 or senjproos@senate.michigan.gov.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents the 21st District, which includes Berrien and Cass counties and most of Van Buren County.