With the growth of technology and the internet comes even more risks. Scams are becoming more prevalent and more detailed. There are lots of online scammers, and their biggest target is the older generation. But today, senior citizens learned how to protect themselves.

A seminar was held today at the North Utica Senior Citizen Community Center.  Senior citizens were taught how to recognize and protect themselves from scammers. Representatives from AT&T and the Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York gave presentations on the topic. They showed examples of different types of scams including phone calls, internet, email, social media, and even in the mail. They were taught the difference between what is real and fake.

We spoke to the New York State Deputy Minority Leader Joseph Griffo, to learn why this event is so important.  Griffo says, "They're providing them a lot of education and information, which will be resources they can use. How they can call someone if there's questions or doubts. They're giving them a lot of examples. I think this is a great seminar where they can interact, learn, and hopefully utilize something to protect themselves in the long run." Griffo says it is important for seniors to stay updated on the new types of scams and how to avoid them.

If you missed the event today, these free senior online safety seminars are held a few times a year.