New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently issued a consumer warning regarding a fraudulent entity operating under the name Jewish Holocaust Claims Center.” The scam solicits Holocaust survivors and their families to submit falsified claims for compensation.

In response, Jewish Family Services of Northeastern New York (JFS) joined state leaders and the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) to raise awareness and protect older adults across the Capital Region.

“JFS of Northeastern New York thanks Governor Hochul for highlighting and combating these scams targeting Holocaust survivors and echoes her words about the depravity of such scams,” said Jane Ginsburg, president and CEO of JFS. “As always, JFS stands ready and able to assist Holocaust survivors in multiple capacities, including avoiding this and other attempts to take advantage of older adults.”

Ivan Vamos, a local Holocaust survivor, emphasized the importance of staying informed during an interview with News 10: “It deals with some of the most vulnerable people. I guess that’s why they go after them. I am glad to have the knowledge of this particular scam because I’m a little bit more aware.”

JFS provides support to over 50 Holocaust survivors and their families, ensuring they have direct access to verified resources and legitimate reparations assistance.

“Our care managers have formed strong, trusting relationships with clients,” said Alicia Jacobs, JFS director of community engagement. “Survivors have come to rely on us for expert guidance and would likely call us if someone was posing as a representative from the Claims Conference. Thankfully, the survivors that we support have not been contacted or victimized by this scam.”

JFS told The Jewish World that aging services care managers at JFS are always educating older adults about th recent scams and how they may protect themselves and not fall prey. “We see this role as one of the many ways to help them age well and safely,” said Jacobs.

She added, “if you, a loved one, or someone you care for receives unsolicited claims or suspicious correspondence, contact JFS to verify the information, navigate legitimate restitution resources, and receive ongoing community support.”

Information may be obtained by calling 518-482-8856, Option 0, info@jfsneny.org or jfsneny.org.