- Cristal Amezcua
- Cristal.Amezcua@asm.ca.gov
ALHAMBRA, CA – Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) hosted the “Senior Scam Stopper Fair” at the Langley Senior Center in Monterey Park on Friday, October 17, 2025. Attended by more than 150 local seniors, the event aimed to empower older adults with critical tools and information to protect themselves from financial scams, fraud, and identity theft.
Presenters from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) and the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) shared recent data, case examples, and prevention strategies related to the most common scams affecting older residents in Southern California to date. Many of these scams target seniors, who are often assumed to have greater financial assets.
“Scams and fraud have been circulating in our community for decades, but the frequency and tactics have only gotten worse in recent years. That is why we hosted this event – to educate the public on how to stay vigilant and safe,” said Assemblymember Mike Fong. “I am grateful to our partner organizations for coming together to provide critical information to protect seniors. The more we know, the better we can protect ourselves and others.”
In addition to educational presentations, attendees had the opportunity to visit resource booths and speak directly with representatives from the following community partners. These organizations provided valuable materials, guidance on how to identify and avoid scams, and information on additional support services:
- AARP
- Asian Youth Center
- Garfield Health Center
- Chinatown Service Center
- Los Angeles County Department of Aging and Disabilities
- Contractors State License Board
Key Scam Prevention Tips Shared at the Fair:
- Never give out personal information over the phone to someone you don’t know.
- Be wary of emergency calls from people claiming to be relatives in trouble. Always confirm their identity — consider setting up a “family safe word.”
- Don’t download apps or transfer money at the request of someone you meet online — it’s a common scam.
- If something feels off, call your bank or the institution directly using the bank’s contact number.
- Avoid joining random group chats, especially if invited by strangers.
- Never click on suspicious links received via text or email from unknown sources.