BELMONT, N.Y. -- Senior citizens in Allegany County will have an opportunity to learn how to protect themselves from scams and fraud at a special workshop hosted by Senator George Borrello and Senator Tom O’Mara on Tuesday, September 30, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Belmont American Legion, 29 Schuyler St., Belmont, N.Y. A complimentary luncheon will be provided by the Allegany County Office for the Aging.

The program, How to Identify Potential Scams and What To Do If You Are a Victim,” will feature presentations from law enforcement and state and county agencies. Experts will cover the most common scams targeting older New Yorkers, offer strategies for prevention, and explain the steps to take if fraud occurs.

According to data from the Federal Trade Commission, New Yorkers lost more than $400 million to fraud in 2023. Nationwide, reported losses topped $10 billion. The most common scams were impostor schemes and online shopping fraud, followed by sweepstakes and lottery scams, investment schemes, and fraudulent business or job opportunities.

“With the evolution of technology, fraud has increased dramatically. During the pandemic, scams reached levels we had never seen before, and they have only continued to rise,” said Senator George Borrello (57th District). “The effects on our seniors can be devastating, not only financially but also emotionally. Too often, older adults are reluctant to report fraud out of shame or fear of losing their independence. This workshop will give them the tools and confidence to protect themselves.”

“Every year, millions of older Americans fall victim to scams and fraudulent activity, sometimes losing the savings they worked their whole lives to build. Older adults are often targeted because scam artists are clever and persistent. Knowledge is the best defense. By educating seniors on how to recognize and avoid scams, we can help safeguard them, their families, and their communities,” said Senator Tom O’Mara (58th District).

Also participating in the event will be Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski (148th District) and representatives from:

Allegany County Office for the Aging

Allegany County Sheriff’s Office

Center for Elder Law & Justice (offering individual consultations)

Office of the New York State Comptroller

Those interested in attending should RSVP to the Allegany County Office for the Aging by calling 585-268-9390.

“This event will help participants identify scams, provide practical tips for avoiding them, and connect those in need with personalized assistance,” Senator Borrello said. “I encourage all interested seniors to attend.”

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