AARP Lauds State for Plan to Educate Older NYers on Financial Exploitation

Contact:  Erik Kriss ekriss@aarp.org  

Statement from Beth Finkel, State Director for AARP in New York State:

“The cost of financial exploitation to older Americans is growing fast - 12 percent from 2008 to 2011 - and that's from reported fraud alone. With so much abuse going unreported, and as Baby Boomers age and people live longer, this problem will explode if left unaddressed. One of the best ways to combat exploitation is by giving people knowledge, so AARP is pleased that New York State is sending its experts around the state to educate our citizens."

Note: AARP operates a Fraud Watch Network, which provides access to information to help people protect themselves and their families. Non-members and members alike can get AARP’s Watchdog Alerts, stay up on con artists’ latest tricks, and find out what to do if victimized. It’s free for everyone at 877-908-3360, toll free.

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AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services.  A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin;  www.aarp.org ; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity of AARP that is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at  www.aarp.org.