Senator Marcellino’s Senior Scams Prevention Forum

What to Look For and How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

Senator Carl L. Marcellino will join together with a panel of experts at 10 am March 18, 2011 in the South Huntington Public Library, 145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station, to bring information, tips and tools to consumers in an effort to prevent senior citizens from becoming victims of scams.

“Knowledge is protection and power,” said Senator Marcellino “Seniors can become the unsuspecting victims of many types of scams leaving psychological and financial scars. The goal of this forum is to alert people to the warning signs, and advise them of what to do should they become a victim.”

Recently the New York State Police put out a warning to the public about a popular scam that keeps resurfacing, it targets grandparents. The sophisticated crime ring makes an average of 200 calls a day pretending to be your jailed grandchild, pleading for bail money or cash for legal fees. Worried grandparents fearing that their grandchild is in trouble in another city, wire the money. If this should happen to you contact the Police immediately and call your loved one yourself.

Fraud targeting senior citizens is a growing concern, as millions have fallen victim nationwide. Roughly 20% of Americans aged 65 or older already have been taken advantage of financially. Senator Marcelino’s forum and panel of experts will help Senior’s and their families recognize and avoid some common cons that target seniors.

“Seniors are more vulnerable and are often targeted for fraud schemes, especially in times of economic turmoil," said Senator Marcellino.  "This workshop aims to give seniors information and access to the tools they need to safeguard themselves."