The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office will host a workshop on Monday that will give local businesses a major boost in the fight against financial fraud and organized retail theft.

The event will take place at Berkshire Community College’s Boland Theater from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with free registration. It brings together business owners, law enforcement, and industry experts to address growing threats to retailers and consumers across the region.

Organized in partnership with the New England State Police Information Network, the workshop features speakers from CVS Health, the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, and the International Association of Financial Crime Investigators. Topics range from current scam tactics—such as card skimmers and counterfeit bills—to policy and prevention strategies designed to protect local economies.

District Attorney Timothy Shugrue says more than 200 businesses, banks, and local organizations are attending the conference.

“We’re teaching them about all of the scams that are happening,” Shugrue said. “Some are going to be on skimmer machines, counterfeit bills, and a lot of bait-and-switch tactics we’re seeing in stores.”

Officials say that although the number of reported incidents may be down, staying vigilant is more important than ever.

James Hall, an Organized Retail Crime Specialist participating in the workshop, emphasized safety and observation as the best tools in crime prevention.

“We don’t want employees to become heroes,” Hall said. “Some of these people are dangerous. The best thing they can do is observe, get photos or video, and report what they see.”

Hall added that community members can also play a role by reporting suspicious behavior and supporting law enforcement efforts.

The workshop will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is part of a broader initiative to prevent retail theft and financial fraud from taking hold in Berkshire County and beyond.

Those interested in learning more or to register can contact James Hall, Organized Retail Crime and Financial Crimes Specialist, Berkshire District Attorney’s Office: James.J.Hall@mass.gov or 413-443-5951 ext. 120.