New Online Map Tracks Scams Against New Yorkers

AARP Tool Alerts New Yorkers to Local Scams Through Reporting of First-Hand Accounts & Notices From State Authorities

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Mar 11, 2014, 12:13 ET

NEW YORK, March 11, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- It will soon be harder to scam New Yorkers – at least that's the goal of a new AARP map tracking the latest scams through first-hand accounts coupled with alerts from state authorities. The tool's aim is simple: to help New Yorkers avoid becoming the next victims.

The interactive map (www.aarp.org/fraudwatchmap) allows users to simply click on their state to get the latest reports on fraud activity happening in New York from fellow consumers and state authorities, such as the New York State Attorney General's office. People can also signup at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork to get alerts when a new scam in New York is posted to the site.

AARP is encouraging New Yorkers to visit the website and report any suspicious emails, phone calls or other fraudulent activity they've seen or experienced in their area.

The online map is part of nationwide effort called the AARP Fraud Watch Network - a campaign to fight fraud and identity theft and give Americans access to information about how to protect themselves and their families.

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 Espanol, 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.

SOURCE AARP New York