Tech Support Scams Targeting New York Seniors
New York seniors lost $46 million to tech support scams in 2024. With 3.4 million seniors across the state – from Manhattan high-rises to rural upstate communities – scammers have adapted their tactics for New York’s diverse population.
Why New York Seniors Face Unique Tech Support Threats
New York’s demographics create specific vulnerabilities:
- Multi-language targeting: Scam call centers operate in Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, Yiddish, and Korean to target immigrant seniors
- Urban density: NYC apartment dwellers are targeted with building-specific scams claiming “network issues” in their complex
- Tech sophistication gap: Many seniors moved to NYC before the digital age and now face unfamiliar technology
- Upstate isolation: Rural seniors in the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Adirondacks have limited local tech support options
- High cost of living: Pressure to avoid expensive repairs makes “free security checks” appealing
New York-Specific Tech Support Scam Tactics
The “Con Edison Security Alert”: Scammers claim Con Edison detected computer problems through your smart meter. They demand remote access to “protect your home systems.” Con Edison NEVER monitors computers.
Spectrum/Optimum “Account Security”: Targeting NYC metro cable customers, scammers pose as Spectrum or Optimum security claiming your internet is compromised and demanding remote access.
Building “IT Department” Scams: In NYC apartment buildings, scammers call claiming to be from your building’s management company or IT department, asking for computer access to “update building network settings.”
Chinese/Mandarin Language Scams: In Flushing, Chinatown, and Sunset Park, call centers target Chinese-speaking seniors with fake “Microsoft” or “Apple” calls in Mandarin, often threatening legal consequences.
Russian-Language Tech Scams: In Brighton Beach and other Russian-speaking communities, scammers pose as tech support in Russian, exploiting limited English proficiency.
How Tech Support Scams Target New York Seniors
Tech support scams typically begin with a pop-up warning, phone call, or email claiming your computer has been compromised. The scammer poses as a representative from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider.
Common tactics include:
- Fake virus alerts that freeze your screen
- Unsolicited calls claiming to be from “Windows Support”
- Pop-ups with toll-free numbers to call for “immediate help”
- Emails warning of account suspension or security breaches
Trusted New York Tech Support Resources
Never call a number from a pop-up. Use these legitimate resources instead:
- NYC Public Libraries: All branches offer free tech help – NYPL, Brooklyn, Queens systems
- OATS (Older Adults Technology Services): Free tech training for NYC seniors – (718) 360-1707
- NYC Department for the Aging: (212) 244-6469 – tech assistance referrals
- Westchester Library System: Senior tech programs throughout the county
- NY 211: Dial 211 for local senior tech resources statewide
Warning Signs of Tech Support Scams
- Unsolicited contact about computer problems you didn’t notice
- Urgency and pressure to act immediately
- Requests for remote access to your computer
- Payment demands via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
- Threats that your computer will be “shut down” or “reported”
What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted
- Disconnect from the internet immediately if you gave remote access
- Run a legitimate antivirus scan
- Change passwords for banking and email accounts
- Contact your bank if you made any payments
- Report to NY Attorney General: (800) 771-7755
- NYC residents: Call 311 to report
- Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov