PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Lily Kim, Counselor at Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC) on Elder Fraud
3:04:05
·
150 sec
Lily Kim from the Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC) testified on elder fraud issues affecting immigrant communities, particularly Korean Americans. She highlighted the increased vulnerability due to language barriers and cultural isolation, and expressed support for three legislative proposals aimed at addressing these challenges.
- Shared an example of a recent scam targeting an elderly Korean individual, emphasizing the need for fraud prevention resources
- Supported Introduction 1092 for educating older adults about fraud, end-of-life preparation, and financial literacy in their preferred languages
- Endorsed Introduction 1101 for improving police training on identity theft and fraud, focusing on cultural sensitivity
- Advocated for Resolution 561, calling for a state-established public guardianship system to support older adults who cannot manage their own affairs
Lily Kim
3:04:05
Good afternoon, chairs, Hudson, and salon.
3:04:07
My name is Lily Kim, and I'm accounts at the Korean American Family Service Center.
3:04:11
Thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
3:04:15
KFC has long been committed to uplifting and empowering the Korean American community with a special focus on those impacted by gender based violence, including elder abuse, Elder fraud is an escalating concern within immigrant communities where language barriers, cultural isolation, and limited access to trustworthy resources increases vulnerability.
3:04:36
Recently in elderly Korean received calling Korean from someone posing as a government official, claiming they owed back taxes and would face arrest if they didn't pay back immediately.
3:04:48
Out of fear, the client almost shared their bank details but contacted our organization first.
3:04:53
This type of scam highlights the need for more fraud prevention resources.
3:04:59
KFFC commends the city council for addressing these unique challenges, and we support the following proposals.
3:05:07
Introduction 1092, which aims to educate older adults about older fraud, end of life preparation, and financial literacy, is pivotal to safeguarding our seniors.
3:05:19
At KFSC, we see firsthand how limited awareness around financial scams and healthcare fraud can place elderly community members at risk.
3:05:30
Empowering seniors with Knowledge in their preferred languages equips them to protect their assets, autonomy, and peace of mind.
3:05:37
Introduction to 1101, which seeks to improve police training on identity theft and fraud, also addresses a significant gap in elder fraud protection.
3:05:47
Many older adults we serve are hesitant to report incidents given language or cultural differences with law enforcement.
3:05:54
Enhanced training for officers focusing on compassion, clear communication, and cultural sensitivity will encourage senior to report issues without fear.
3:06:04
And lastly, Resolution 561 advocating 1st state established public guardianship system is a crucial step in supporting older adults who cannot manage their own affairs due to health or cognitive challenges.
3:06:17
In immigrant communities, language barriers can complicate access to reliable guardianship options.
3:06:23
A public guardianship system would address these disparities ensuring that all seniors can receive the protections they deserve.
3:06:29
Thank you for your attention to these important issues and for incorporating the feedback of immigrant communities into your proposals.
