POUGHKEEPSIE … In today’s increasingly digital world, scams are becoming more sophisticated, with fraudsters using technology to make their schemes feel personal and urgent. To help older adults stay safe, Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the County’s Office for the Aging (OFA) invite seniors and caregivers to a free, in person workshop introducing SilverShield, an innovative new tool designed to help protect users from scams in real time.
The OFA will host several “Introduction to SilverShield” sessions in June:
Tuesday, June 2 at 10 a.m.
Town of Poughkeepsie Senior Center
14 Abe’s Way, Poughkeepsie
Open to Town of Poughkeepsie residents only; call 845-462-0265 to register.
Monday, June 15 at 3 p.m.
Dutchess County Office for the Aging
114 Delafield Street, Poughkeepsie
Seating is limited, and advance registration is required by calling the OFA at 845 486 2555 during business hours.
Tuesday, June 16 at 12:30 p.m.
Town of LaGrange Senior Center
Freedom Plains United Presbyterian Church
1168 Route 55, Lagrangeville
Open to Town of LaGrange residents only; call 845-452-1972 to register.
Thursday, June 18 at 1 p.m.
Howland Public Library
313 Main Street, Beacon
Call 845-831-1134 to register.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Scammers don’t just go after our information — they go after our trust, and that can leave people feeling shaken or embarrassed. I’ve heard from so many older adults who say they second guessed themselves or wished they had someone to turn to in the moment. SilverShield gives them exactly that: a calm, reassuring guide right when they need it. I’m grateful we can bring this tool to Dutchess County, and I hope our seniors and caregivers will join us to learn how to stay safe and confident in a world where scams are becoming harder to spot.”
SilverShield uses artificial intelligence (A.I.) to help users identify and respond safely to potential scams. Individuals can report suspicious text messages, calls, or emails directly through their phone or email. The system then provides step by step guidance on what to do — and what not to do — helping users avoid common pitfalls. Each reported scam is also shared with federal investigators, contributing to broader efforts to combat fraud nationwide.
The Dutchess County OFA has partnered with the New York State Office for the Aging to bring SilverShield to local older adults. Through State support, OFA has secured a limited number of free one year SilverShield subscriptions for Dutchess County seniors. There is no cost and no obligation to purchase anything.
Older adults and caregivers attending any of these workshops will learn how to recognize common scam tactics, see a live demonstration of SilverShield, and leave with practical tools they can use immediately to safeguard themselves and their loved ones.
OFA Director Todd Tancredi said, “We hear from older adults every week who have been targeted by increasingly convincing scams. Education is one of the strongest defenses we can offer, and SilverShield adds an extra layer of protection by giving users real time support when they need it most. This workshop is a great opportunity for seniors and caregivers to build confidence and stay informed.”
