Title
Dept/ Agency: Offices of Municipal Council/City Clerk
Action: ( ) Ratifying (X) Authorizing ( ) Amending
Type of Service: Resolution of Support
Purpose: Fraud Prevention Month
Sponsor: Council Member at-Large Louise Scott-Rountree
Additional Information:
Body
WHEREAS, Americans lose billions of dollars each year to fraud, with older adults disproportionately affected, making prevention, education, and strong consumer protections more important than ever; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimate fraud losses in 2024 were as high as $196 billion nationwide, with up to $81 billion stolen from older adults; and
WHEREAS, New Jerseyans reported about $133.5 million in fraud losses in 2025 according to the FTC; and
WHEREAS, older adults who experience fraud have four times that of the average across all ages; and
WHEREAS, older adults are often affected by fraud when they are no longer working or already financially strained unable to recover the money that was stolen; and
WHEREAS, public awareness and education are critical in helping consumers recognize the common red flag of scams and keeping them informed about emerging fraud trends; and
WHEREAS, our communities-which include non-profit organizations, law enforcement, and public officials-are working to strengthen consumer protections, provide victim support, and advocate for stronger measures to prevent and prosecute fraud at the local, state and federal levels; and
WHEREAS, preventing fraud is shared responsibility, and increasing awareness during Fraud Prevention Month empowers all New Jerseyans especially older adults-to protect themselves, their families, and their financial security.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWARK, NEW JERSEY, THAT:
1. The Municipal Council proclaims April 2026 Fraud Prevention Month throughout the City of Newark, New Jersey and encourage all Newark residents to learn the red flags of scams and to support community and advocacy efforts that help prevent scams, protect, and assist victims
2. This Resolution of Support is hereby ratified to the date of adoption of this authorizing Resolution.
3. A copy of the Resolution shall be filed with the Office of the City Clerk.
statement
This Resolution proclaims the Municipal Council’s support of Fraud Prevention Month.