Be Original

You have an opportunity to reach a broad audience and use your creativity to make a difference in combating financial scams. While there is a wealth of information published by the FBI, Better Business Bureau, AARP and others, avoid repeating what has already been done.

Payments Innovation Alliance Resources

• Elder Financial Exploitation Awareness Infographic.
• Highway to Easy Money – Think Again.
• Money Mule Infographic.

Tips for Making a Compelling Video

• Identify your target audience. Think about what your audience needs and wants, and then create content that's effective and engaging. Remember, your winning video will help consumers avoid being scammed. Think about what will be effective and engaging.
• Create a script that tells a story. Consider how to evoke emotions while providing education and entertainment.
• Create a catchy title for your video. Make it snappy and readable. Long titles get cut off. Use action verbs to make a compelling proposition. Make sure that your content delivers what your title promises.
• Open with a “hook”. Get the viewer’s attention with a suspenseful opening or element of surprise.
• Keep it simple and focused. Avoid overcrowding with multiple messages or concepts. Your video can be less than 60 seconds.
• Make it easy for people to understand. Use everyday terms and language.
• End with a call to action. Share tips for how people can protect themselves.
• Enhance the message with visual effects. Use footage, images or animation. Reinforce key points using text overlays or captions.
• Enhance the mood and message. Choose original complementary music or sound, and any narrations should be clear and engaging.
• Be smart with how you use Artificial Intelligence. Originality and creativity are key factors for creating a winning video. 
• Avoid intellectual property conflicts. No logos, trademarks, copyrights, or hashtags are permitted of any business, company, or person. Obtain written consent if using images of any person.
• Keep your video a surprise. Videos that have been published prior to the contest winner announcements will be disqualified. 

Requirements

• Your original work educates people about how they combat one or more financial scams.
• Tell your story in English in 60 seconds or less.
• Submit an MP4 video by the video challenge deadline.
• Comply with the 2026 Official Rules.