New York State Launches Scam Prevention Tool for Seniors in 2026

URGENT UPDATE: New York State is set to launch a groundbreaking tool in January 2026 aimed at curbing the alarming rise of financial scams targeting seniors. The announcement was made by Greg Olsen, Director of the State Office for the Aging, during a public hearing on Tuesday in New York City. This initiative comes in response to a staggering increase in financial exploitation of adults aged 60 and older, with the state ranking fourth highest in the nation for such crimes.

Recent data reveals that in 2023, older New Yorkers lost over $257 million to scams, reflecting a dramatic 27% increase from the previous year. Over 4,300 individuals reported losses averaging $47,000 each, translating to a shocking $557,000 lost every day across the state. The growing complexity of scams, particularly those leveraging artificial intelligence, has prompted urgent action from state lawmakers.

The new tool will allow seniors to report suspicious calls or messages via text or email to SilverShield, a partner in this initiative, for real-time advice on potential scams. Olsen emphasized the importance of empowering older adults with knowledge, stating,

“It will tell you the likelihood of is it a scam, is there a risk? Is it not? And what to do.”

With over 6,200 complaints filed last year alone, officials acknowledge that the true scale of the issue is likely much larger, as only one in 44 cases is reported. “Eighty-three percent of all household wealth is held by people over the age of 50,” Olsen added, underlining the financial stakes involved.

Lawmakers are increasingly concerned about the safety of seniors, with Assembly Aging Committee Chair Rebecca Seawright highlighting the emotional toll of these scams. At the hearing, she urged for comprehensive support systems to protect vulnerable populations.

In addition to launching the new tool, Olsen called for expanded educational outreach initiatives targeting older adults, their families, and caregivers to raise awareness and reduce victimization. He noted,

“We feature scam and fraud prevention in every newsletter, every social media post.”

As part of the broader strategy, state agencies will collaborate with county Offices for the Aging and banks to enhance fraud prevention measures. However, concerns loom over potential budget cuts to federally funded programs that assist scam victims, which are expected to be a contentious topic in upcoming legislative sessions.

This new initiative represents a vital step forward in combating the financial exploitation of older adults in New York, aiming to equip them with the tools necessary for self-protection. With scams becoming increasingly sophisticated and prevalent, the urgency for effective solutions has never been greater.

As New Yorkers await the rollout of this tool, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of the state’s senior population against the ever-evolving tactics of financial fraudsters.