Deutsch’s Senior Scam Education Bill Passed In City Council

Councilmember Chaim Deutsch’s Senior Scam Education bill passed unanimously through City Council and was signed into law on August 31st.

Last week, Deutsch received a phone call at his office from a 75 year-old man. Someone had called the man, and told him he won $2 million in the lottery, but in order to claim the prize he would have to send $11,000. The man borrowed money from family and friends to get his $2 million. By the time he realized he’d been scammed, it was too late.

These scams come in different forms. Another method is for the scammer to impersonate an IRS official, and claim the person owes an exorbitant amount of money, but if they pay a smaller amount, there won’t be any penalties.

“People who are trying to make ends meet, or maybe they do have some savings, they fall prey to these scams,” said Deutsch. “If it’s too good to be true, then it probably is.”

Older adults make up 30 percent of scam victims, and are more vulnerable than others, according to a press release from Deutsch’s office. There are scams designed specifically for senior citizens, such as the “fake grandchild scheme,” in which a scammer will call a senior citizen and tell them they’re holding their grandchild hostage. Many people send the ransom money without question, out of fear and love for their grandchild, says Deutsch.

According to Deutsch, these scams come mostly from out of the country, making them impossible to track. This bill mandate the Department of Consumer Affairs to educate seniors through outreach in senior centers, and retirement communities.

“It’s going to educate older adults on how to be cautious and take preventative measures,” said Deutsch. “It’s also important to teach people how to report incidents, and who to call.”

Deutsch is a member of the aging committee and has worked to get seniors involved in community meetings, and take them on trips to places like Governor’s Island, and the 9/11 museum and memorial.