DFTA, DCWP Statement on Senior Scams Around the Holidays

NEW YORK (Nov. 26, 2019) - "Scammers often cruelly and heartlessly target older adults. I want every older New Yorker to be on the lookout, especially around the holidays," said Department for the Aging (DFTA) Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. "We want you to identify scams earlier. Our Elderly Crime Victims Resource Center is here to help you. Together, we will stop scammers in their tracks."

"Sadly, too often scammers and predatory businesses prey on older adults," said Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Lorelei Salas. "We urge our older New Yorkers to be savvy and get our tips so they aren't taken advantage of whether it's during this holiday shopping season, if they are hiring a home improvement contractor, or buying a new phone. And if you or anyone needs help with their finances, they can get free financial counseling at one of our Financial Empowerment Centers."

Older adults are swindled out of $2.9 billion a year, according to some estimates. The grandparent scam, charity scams, and health insurances scams among the top 10 financial scams.

DCWP, in collaboration with DFTA, offers consumer protection tips for older adults in multiple languages to help educate them about common frauds and financial issues and where to turn for help. DCWP also recently issued holiday shopping tips to protect consumers' identity and money during the holiday season.

We also provide tips for immigrants and women to address the challenges they face.

DFTA's Elderly Crime Victims Resource Center can be reached by calling 311.

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The New York City Department for the Aging works to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality of life of New York City's diverse 1.6 million older adults. DFTA also works to support caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. DFTA is the largest area agency on aging in the U.S.

The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) protects and enhances the daily economic lives of New Yorkers to create thriving communities. For more information about DCWP and its work, call 311 or visit DCWP at nyc.gov/dcwp or on its social media sites, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.