Rockville Centre, NY - August 10, 2016 - Yesterday, Senator Todd Kaminsky and the Office of New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman hosted Smart Seniors, an informational forum focused on educating and protecting senior citizens from scams. 

“Too often we hear of our senior family members, friends, and neighbors being targeted by these vicious scams that threaten their livelihood, security, and safety,” said Kaminsky. “If we have saved one individual from being deceived by these frauds or from losing their life’s savings, and given them the tools to fight back, then we have accomplished our goal.”

Pictured: Senator Kaminsky speaking to attendees about ways to protect themselves from scammers​.

“Far too often our senior citizens are the target of scammers,” said Attorney General Schneiderman. “I am proud to stand with Todd Kaminsky to help educate consumers about the steps they can take to recognize and avoid falling victim to scams.”

Attendees learned about various types of scams, including the Sweepstakes or Contests scam, and Home Improvement scams, and Senator Kaminsky recalled how once his grandmother was targeted by a “Grandma, it’s me” scam.  Presenters also educated the group on internet safety, elder abuse, and how to take control of their finances.

"'Smart Seniors' helped provide Sandel members with the tools necessary to protect themselves from fraud and abuse,"  commented Chris O'Leary, Director of Senior Services for the Village of Rockville Centre. "We are grateful to Senator Todd Kaminsky for arranging this informative and important program."

Pictured (L to R): NYS Assistant Attorney General Toni Logue, Senator Kaminsky, and TJ Hatter, Long Island Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for the NYS Attorney General.

Over 50 were in attendance at the event, which was held at the Sandel Senior Center.  Anyone who feels they may have been a victim of a scam can call the NYS Attorney General’s hotline at 1-800-771-7755.  For more information on this event, please contact Senator Kaminsky’s District Office at (516) 766-8383.