Includes soup of the day or salad, Classico homemade garlic knots and rice pudding
• Pasta With Marinara Or Meat Sauce
• Pasta With Garlic And Oil
• Pasta With Broccoli
• Pasta With One Sausage Or One Meatball
• Baked Ziti
• Ravioli
• Stu ed Shells
• Lasagna
• Manicotti
• Pasta Primavera/Vegetables With Garlic Oil
• Pasta Bolognese
• Pasta Alfredo
• Pasta Alla Vodka
•
Assemblyman Tours West Islip High School’s CTE Offerings
West Islip Union Free School District administrators welcomed Assemblyman Michael Durso for a tour of the Career and Technical Education programs at West Islip High School on Feb.
13. Assemblyman Durso recently helped to secure a $30,000 donation to support the school’s CTE offerings.
The donation was used for raw materials and welding supplies for the students. This included a steel plate, welding helmets, protective jackets and the newly installed ventilation system.
“Contributions like this
have allowed us to grow our CTE program – including the welding program –and expand our course offerings for students,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Romanelli. Assemblyman Durso had
the opportunity to see CTE classes in action during the tour, including technology, engineering, automotive and welding. Students gifted him with a custom etched glass and a keychain, made in the high school programs.
West Islip High School welcomed Assemblyman Michael Durso for a tour of its Career and Technical Education programs on Feb. 13. Photos courtesy of West Islip Union Free School District
MARCH HAPPENINGS
THURS., FEB. 27th
1:00PM-7:00PM
BLOOD DRIVE
Nassau County Legislature Deputy
Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker is once again joining forces with the New York Blood Center to host a blood drive at Syosset Fire Department Headquarters, 50 Cold Spring Road in Syosset. Appointments are preferred but not required; walk-ins will be taken as capacity permits. Call 1-800-93-BLOOD (25663) or visit https://donate.nybc.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/321708 to make an appointment. For more information, contact Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 or adrucker@ nassaucountyny.gov
SAT., MARCH 1st
10:00AM-12:00PM
FOOD COLLECTION DRIVE
New York State Assemblyman
Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park) and Babylon Village Mayor Mary Adams, in partnership with Suffolk County Legislator Kevin McCaffrey and Babylon Town Councilman
Terence McSweeney, are holding a drive-thru Food Collection Drive at the Babylon Village Gazebo located on Montauk Highway across from Argyle Lake Park in Babylon. All items collected will be donated to the First Presbyterian Church Babylon Food Pantry and distributed to individuals and families in need. For more information, please contact Assemblyman Durso’s office at 516-541-4598.
HOLIDAYS
9th - Daylight Savings Begins
17th - St. Patrick's Day
20th - Spring Begins
MAKE A SUBMISSION!
Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more info, call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
SUN., MARCH 2nd
1:00PM
WINTER CONCERT SERIES
The New York Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation invites you to experience fine classical music at the Upper Carriage House at Bayard Cutting Arboretum in Great River. The concert is free and is sponsored by the Islip Arts Council with funding provided by Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Natural Heritage Trust, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. For more information, please call the Islip Arts Council at 631-888-3525.
WED., MARCH 5th
11:30AM-12:00PM DISTRIBUTION OF ASHES
Pastor Claire Wu of the Farmingdale United Methodist Church will distribute ashes to anyone in the community regardless of faith or denomination in front of the church at 407 Main Street. All are welcome. Church service will be at 7:00PM, all are welcome there, too! Text Box: ASHES TO STAY. For more information, please call 631-884-0149.
SAT., MARCH 8th
9:00AM- 4:00PM LONG ISLAND DECOY COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION ANTIQUE DECOY & SPORTING COLLECTIBLES SHOW
IBEW UNION HALL #370 Vanderbilt/ Motor Parkway in Hauppauge. Admission - $10.00. Children 12 & Under Get In Free. Parking Is Free! MAIN EXHIBIT: Wildfowler & Herter’s Factory Fowl of the 40s, 50s & 60s.
Attendance or Vendor Information: Ben Sohm 516-776-4721, George Munkert 516-457-1636, Dick Richardson 631-475-4199. Tickets & Registration Available at www. lidecoycollectors.com
6:00PM
CHEF COMPETITION
Cook your favorite entree or dessert or just taste and cast your vote. Admission $10. Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information call 631-226-8690, gumc.lindy@gmail.com
SAT., MARCH 22nd
5:00PM-8:00PM
ST PATRICK'S DAY DINNER & SHOW
First Presbyterian Church 497 Pulaski Road in Greenlawn. $30.00 per person. Entertainment~ MulvahillLynch School of Irish Dancers. Full Traditional Irish Meal, Irish Soda Bread beverages & dessert, Raffle Baskets and a Door Prize! Call Priscilla for tickets and reservations 631-379-4889. RSVP by March 15.
SUN., MARCH 23rd
11:00AM-5:00PM
ST JAMES MODEL RAILROAD CLUB
WINTER OPEN HOUSE
Located at the Mills Pond House in St James. Once again opening to the public with many new additions to the Layout There is a requested donation, Adults $2.00, Children .50. PLEASE NOTE: The St. James Model Railroad Club is not handicapped accessible. For further information call evenings 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732
Governor Makes $150 Million Infrastructure Announcement
Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced a transformational $150 million investment to connect the Long Island Rail Road’s (LIRR) Ronkonkoma Station with the proposed North Terminal at MacArthur Airport, significantly improving accessibility and enhancing the region’s transportation infrastructure. This initiative builds on the Governor’s commitment to the development of a new terminal at MacArthur Airport, further positioning Long Island as a hub for economic growth and innovation.
“Long Islanders deserve modern, efficient transit systems that make their daily lives easier and fuel local economic growth,” Governor Hochul said. “By improving transit access, redesigning road networks, and enhancing critical infrastructure, we are unlocking new opportunities for businesses, tourism, and economic development. This $150 million investment will also create good-paying union jobs while transforming how Long Islanders connect to one another, to New York and to the rest of the world.”
The new funding further leverages Governor Hochul’s 2022 commitment of $40 million for a new North Terminal at MacArthur Airport. The project will include a pedestrian walkway linking the airport and LIRR station, redesigned road networks and upgrades to various infrastructure. These enhancements will improve passenger experience, reduce travel times and position MacArthur Airport as a key transportation hub for Long Island.
MacArthur Airport has long played a vital role in Suffolk County’s transportation system, evolving from a military airfield in 1942 to being recognized as one of the best small airports in America. This latest investment reaffirms the
State’s commitment to improving infrastructure and expanding economic opportunities in the region.
By improving connectivity and unlocking the potential of 48 acres of land surrounding the station, the project will drive further development and tourism growth. The investment aligns with the Governor’s broader vision for Long Island, which includes strengthening transit networks, expanding housing access and fostering job creation.
"By improving transit access, redesigning road networks, and enhancing critical infrastructure, we are unlocking new opportunities for businesses, tourism, and economic development," said Governor Hochul.
Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter said, “We would like to acknowledge and thank Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to investing in our region.
Commercial Development at Ronkonkoma South represents an incredible opportunity for the region and certainly maximizes the potential of our regional airport. With this investment, we are laying the foundation for longterm economic growth, bringing in high-quality jobs, and creating new opportunities for our young professionals to live and work right here in our community. We are also leveraging the investments made in our transportation infrastructure, including the enhancements to the LIRR and the future potential of Amtrak service. With mixed-use residential development north of the Ronkonkoma railroad, we have a unique opportunity to create a thriving, connected transportation hub that supports our workforce and strengthens our economy.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "This transformative investment
demonstrates New York State's commitment to building world-class infrastructure that drives economic growth. The direct connection between MacArthur Airport and the LIRR network will create new opportunities for business development, tourism, and job creation that will benefit Long Island for generations to come. The additional funding advances Long Island's momentum as a hub for economic growth, expanding opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike."
Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, "As a Long Islander, I know firsthand how critical robust transportation infrastructure is to our region's future. This $150 million investment to connect MacArthur Airport with the LIRR's Ronkonkoma Station will catalyze economic development, enhance quality of life, and create new possibilities for sustainable growth. The improved accessibility and modernized transit network will help cement Long Island's continued success as a premier destination to live, work, and do business."
Long Island Rail Road
President Rob Free said, “The LIRR is the fastest, safest and most economical way to travel across Long Island and this project is a unique opportunity to help take more cars off the roads,” said LIRR President Rob Free. “Moving MacArthur’s terminal closer to Ronkonkoma station will encourage people to take
the train to the airport. The LIRR is already the best travel experience to JFK and we are ready to help MacArthur Airport grow by bringing that same great travel experience there too.”
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said, “I thank Governor Hochul for recognizing the critically important need for
infrastructure investment to help grow Suffolk County’s economy and protect its environment. Without these investments Suffolk County cannot grow to accommodate new businesses or create new opportunities for residents or improve transportation. This is a great win for the people of Suffolk County."
Assemblyman Durso Announces Annual Pet Food Drive
New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park), in coordination with Long Island Cares, is inviting the community to participate in his annual Pet Food Drive to help families keep their pets out of shelters and remain at home where they belong.
Assemblyman Durso is asking residents, community organizations and pet lovers to kindly donate unopened bags of dog and cat food, canned pet food and pet supplies. All items collected will be donated to Baxter’s Pet Pantry, operated by Long Island Cares, which provides free pet food and pet supplies to petowning families in need throughout Long Island.
Donations can be dropped off through April 4, 2025 at Assemblyman Durso’s district office located at 512 Park Boulevard in Massapequa Park or at various other locations throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
For more information, call Durso’s district office at 516-541-4598.
Donations are being accepted at the following locations: Assemblyman Durso’s District Office: 512 Park Boulevard, Massapequa Park, NY
Petco 5500 Sunrise Hwy, Massapequa, NY
Babylon Public Library 24 S Carll Ave, Babylon, NY
North Babylon Public Library 815 Deer Park Ave, North Babylon, NY
West Babylon Public Library 211 NY-109, West Babylon, NY West Islip Public Library 3 Higbie Lane, West Islip, NY
Participating Schools (only accepting student donations): Massapequa High School, Massapequa Bayview Elementary School, West Islip Manetuck Elementary School, West Islip Oquenock Elementary School, West Islip
Beach Street Middle School, West Islip Udall Road Middle School, West Islip West Islip High School, West Islip
Paul J Bellow Elementary School, West Islip
Recipe Of The Week: Spicy Oven-Fried Cod Fillets
Cod is a popular saltwater fish that is mild in flavor with firm meat. This means it may hold up better than some other white fish in different meals, like a fish fry. This recipe for “Spicy Oven-Fried Cod Fillets” (The Pampered Chef®) from The Pampered Chef® Test Kitchens is a flavorful, yet light dish.
4 servings
Sauce:
2 teaspoons thinly sliced green onion with top
1 small garlic clove, pressed
1/2 cup reduced-fat Thousand Island salad dressing
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Dash cayenne pepper
Directions:
Cod fillets:
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup dry Italian-style bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 pounds cod fish fillets
1. Preheat oven to 450 F. For sauce, thinly slice green onion. Press garlic. Add onion, salad dressing, chili powder, and cayenne pepper; mix well. Cover; refrigerate at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.
2. For cod fillets, lightly beat egg in a small bowl. Combine bread crumbs, chili powder and salt in a shallow dish. Dip fillets into egg, then into bread crumb mixture, coating evenly. Arrange fillets on a pan; lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until cod flakes easily with a fork. Remove from oven; serve cod with sauce.
Connecting Our Community
Children’s Library Programs Highlights of Library Events
TWIST & SHOUT STORYTIME • AGES 2-PREK
TUESDAYS, MARCH 4, MARCH 18, APRIL 1, APRIL 15, & APRIL 29 • 9:45 OR 10:30AM
Join Miss Kerri every other Tuesday for a high-energy morning of stories, songs, rhymes and more. Registration not required.
PAJAMA STORYTIME • AGES 2-PREK
THURSDAYS, MARCH 6, MARCH 20, & APRIL 10 • 6:30PM
Wrap up your busy day with a very quiet, calm, sedate storytime. Well, maybe not with Miss Carol, but at least she will try to wear the kids out before bedtime! Registration not required.
ALL-BY-MYSELF STORYTIME • AGES 3-PREK WITHOUT AN ADULT
THURSDAYS, MARCH-APRIL • 1:30PM
Preschoolers can practice their independence in this on-my-own storytime with Miss Kerri. Registration not required. No storytime on April 17.
DROP IN AND CRAFT: LUCK & SHENANIGANS • FOR ALL AGES
SATURDAY, MARCH 8 • 11AM-1PM
Drop in and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a few festive crafts. Registration not required.
ZUMBA FOR KIDS • GRADES K-6
SATURDAY, MARCH 15 • 11AM
Saturday, April 12 · 11am Join Lauren Blum for this fun, get-moving, jump-around Zumba class for kids.
LIBRARY PLAYDATE • AGES 18 MOS-AGE 4
MONDAY, MARCH 31 • 10:30AM
Stay for the duration or just stop by for this open-playtime in the Children’s Activity Room. Registration not required
Teen Library Programs
BLINDFOLDED COOKIE CHALLENGE
THURSDAY, MARCH 13 • 7–8PM
Taste all different types of delicious cookies while blindfolded and see which ones you guess correctly! Winner will receive a prize. This program may not be suitable for those with food allergies. WI teen residents only.
SELF DEFENSE 101
THURSDAY, MARCH 27 • 7–8PM
Learn the basics of self-defense from 4th Degree Black Belt Alex Vamos. Adults and teens welcome! WI residents only.
SUNDAY, APRIL 6–SATURDAY, APRIL 12
Celebrate National Library Week by submitting an original design that pertains to this year’s theme: Drawn to the Library! All submissions will be featured on our website until April 30 so that WI patrons can vote for their favorite! Winning designs may be used by the Library in future marketing or promotional campaigns. Please email teens@westisliplibrary.org with an attachment of your digital art, your name, and your grade.
1,000 Books Before Kindergaarten
500 Books Before Middle School Join now on Beanstack!
SAT PREP SAT PREP SAT PREP
TUESDAYS, MARCH 11– APRIL 1
6:30–8:30PM
BAY SHORE-BRIGHTWATERS PUBLIC LIBRARY 1 S COUNTRY RD, BRIGHTWATERS $85 NON-REFUNDED FEE
Develop skills and strategies to help raise your SAT test scores. This indispensable in-person 4-week course is taught by NYS certified English and Math teachers. Fee is due within 3 days of registration. Cash or check made payable to West Islip Public Library. WI teen residents only.
STONY BROOK BASKETBALL VS. ELON UNIVERSITY -ALL WELCOMESATURDAY, MARCH 1 · 6PM · $10 PER TICKET
STONY BROOK ARENA: 100 NICOLLS RD, STONY BROOK
Come on down and root for the home team, the Stony Brook Seawolves, at their last home game of the season. Digital tickets will be sent out the week of the event. Register on the library’s website - https://westisliplibrary.libnet.info/event/12977970 A ticket must be purchased for each person attending.
MONTHLY QUILTING WORKSHOP
SATURDAYS, MARCH 8 & APRIL 12 • 10AM–12PM
Whether you are a beginner or experienced quilter, everyone is welcome! Bring your own project to work on or start something new. You may participate in one session or both. No registration required.
BOOKING AIRLINE TICKETS MADE EASY
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12 • 7–8PM
Buying plane tickets is so much easier than it used to be! Join us for a demonstration on how to book flights online!
TAX PLANNING & YOUR RETIREMENT
THURSDAY, MARCH 13 • 6:30–8PM
Join Christian LaPeter, a representative of Equity Services, Inc., to learn more about several tax planning strategies that may help you in retirement.
CONCERT: LONG ISLAND HARMONIZERS
SUNDAY, MARCH 16 • 2–3PM
Join us for a delightful afternoon of music performed by this acapella choral group, sharing their barbershop style and sweet harmonies. Their repertoire ranges from traditional barbershop music all the way to the Great American Songbook.
This concert is generously sponsored by The Friends of West Islip Library.
AUTHOR TALK: VERONIQUE WALLRAPP
MONDAY, MARCH 24 • 7–8PM
Listen to author Veronique Wallrapp as she reads an excerpt from her book, Etched in Stone. She will share her writing journey and what led her to the genre of historical fiction. You may bring your own copy of her book to be signed.
ON FIRE ISLAND LONG ISLAND READS DISCUSSION
THURSDAY, MARCH 27 • 7–8PM
Join us to discuss this year’s Long Island Reads selection, On Fire Island by Jane L. Rosen. This intimate story about love and death, uses poignant comedy and insight to share the journey of book editor Julia Morse as she spends one last summer on Fire Island. Visit the Circulation Desk for a copy of the book.
INTRO TO MAC
SATURDAY, MARCH 29 • 10AM–12PM
In this hands-on class, learn all about Apple's Mac computer. Learn about the desktop, elements of your computer, tools and toolbars, how to get online, and much more.
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL AGING IN PLACE
MONDAY, MARCH 31 • 7–8PM
Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands will discuss how you can proactively take the proper steps to ensure your safety and well-being while enjoying a happy and healthy life in your own home well into your golden years.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
SOCIAL WORK INTERN ASSISTANCE
Receive one-on-one help from our Social Work Intern, who can connect you with social services, mental health resources, and other support options. To learn more, contact the Adult Department.
ASSEMBLYMAN DURSO’S PET FOOD DRIVE
MARCH 1-31
Donate pet food to help more pets stay at home with their families and out of shelters.
Q & A WITH THE SCPD 3RD PRECINCT
TUESDAY, MARCH 4 • 11AM–1PM
Drop in to hear from Suffolk County Police Department’s 3rd Precinct about topics related to community policing. Residents are invited to bring up issues of concern in their neighborhoods. No registration required.
RESPITE CARE SERVICES
MONDAY, MARCH 10 OR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19 • 10AM–2PM
Stop by to learn about the short-term relief program, which provides companionship to seniors while their caregiver runs errands, offered by RiseWell Community Services.
BLOOD DRIVE
THURSDAY, MARCH 20 • 2–7:30PM
Offered in partnership with the Women of West Islip. Contact New York Blood Center for questions concerning donor eligibility. Walk-ins welcome.
Long Island Reads is an Island-wide reading initiative intended to bring together readers from across Nassau and Suffolk Counties to discuss one book Celebrate this year’s selection, On Fire Island, by joining us at a special event with the author. Visit our website to get your tickets!
Friends West Islip Public Library of the
SHRED DAY TUESDAY, APRIL 8 · 11AM-3PM
Get
TUESDAY, APRIL 8 Visit
•
•
•
•
• Will they take professional photographs?
• Will they take professional photographs?
• How will they advertise/promote your home?
• Will they just list your home on
• How will they advertise/promote your home?
• Will they just list your home on MLS and make you do the rest?
• Will they be at every Showing and at Closing?
4 Interesting Facts About The Month Of March
March marks a turning point for many people each year. Perhaps because winter winds down and officially ends in mid-March, the month is easy to characterize as a turning point toward spring and all that entails, including warmer weather and additional hours of daylight. The vernal equinox is one of many interesting facts about the third month of the year.
1. March might mark the official return of spring, but the inspiration for its name is far less serene. According to Almanac.com, March
is named for Mars, the Roman god of war. That might not jibe with modern impressions of March, but it makes sense from a historical perspective. That’s because military campaigns were once routinely suspended during the cold winter months. Upon the return of spring and the more favorable conditions it produced, military campaigns would start up again, thus making March an aptly named month.
2. Though presidential inaugurations in the
United States are now held in January, that wasn’t always the case. In fact, March 4 was the official Inauguration Day until 1933, when the Twentieth Amendment was ratified and inaugurations were officially moved to January. Even George Washington, the first man to serve as President of the United States of America, was initially slated to be inaugurated on March 4. However, the Library of Congress notes that electoral ballots could not be counted
as quickly as Congress anticipated, so the first inauguration was delayed until April 30, 1789. President Franklin D. Roosevelt holds the distinction of being the first American president to be inaugurated in January after he was sworn in on January 20, 1937.
3. March hosts one of the most beloved holidays across the globe, even though the day commemorates the patron saint of a small country in western Europe. St. Patrick is the primary patron saint of Ireland, a small island nation in the North Atlantic Ocean with a population of roughly seven million people. Despite that, World Population Review reports that St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in more than 200 countries each year on March 17. The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is worldrenowned, but the holiday is celebrated in other countries one might not immediately associate with Ireland and St. Patrick, such as Singapore, Russia and Japan.
4. College sports fans anxiously anticipate the arrival of March each year. That’s because the month marks the return of March Madness, a college basketball tradition that annually draws millions of fans to watch and/or attend games in the weeks
long single-elimination NCAA Tournament that culminates with the national championship game. The origins of the phrase “March Madness” are not precisely known, though many historians trace the phrase to high school basketball in Indiana in the 1930s. Legendary broadcaster Brent Musburger is credited with associating the term with the NCAA Tournament in the 1980s.
Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) is pleased to inform Islip residents about the local Suffolk County Office for the Aging Winter 2025 Senior Advocate Schedule. Senior advocates are County representatives who come out into the community and assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications and referrals to appropriate
Winter Senior Advocate Schedules
community agencies.
“It is so important for us to provide our senior citizens with the assistance and information they need in ways that are most convenient to them. These visits allow our seniors to connect with our County’s senior advocates right in their own communities,” said Legislator Donnelly. “I hope all those interested in the services that the Suffolk County Office for the Aging
provides will take advantage of this opportunity.”
This winter, Senior Advocates will be visiting the following locations in the Town of Islip:
• Bay Shore Library, 1 S. Country Road, Brightwaters: Friday, March 21, 10 am – 12 pm
• Bishop McGann Housing, 200 Bishop McGann Drive, Central Islip: Monday, March 24, 10 am – 12 pm
• Brentwood Senior Nutrition, 16 Second Avenue, Brentwood: Monday, March 3, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
• Connetquot Library, 760 Ocean Avenue, Bohemia: Thursday, March 13, 10 am – 12 pm
• East Islip Library, 381 E. Main Street, East Islip: Monday, March 10, 10 am – 12 pm Advocates assist with the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as food stamps), Medicare Savings Program and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications. They also can provide information on Medicare, answer questions and make recommendations and referrals. For more information about available services or directions to any of these locations, please
call the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at (631) 853-8200.
“For more than three decades, the Suffolk County Office for the Aging has been providing full and troublefree access to critical services,” Donnelly said. “I am glad to see their great professional community outreach program continue and hope that every senior resident will make full use of it.”
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Patios, Decks,etc
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Reqmts: associate’s deg in engg, dsgn or rltd & 2 yrs exp on structural package dsgnr or closely rltd. Salary: $56,826/yr. Send Resume: Jeremy Cohen, President, Knoll Printing & Packaging, Inc, 415 Crossways Park Dr, Ste
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Protecting Your Assets
by Mariana Raymond of Truecaller
(NAPSI)—Identity theft is becoming more common, affecting people from all walks of life—but you can protect yourself.
The Problem
Scammers are always finding new ways to steal personal information, often leaving their victims with financial losses and a sense of violation.
An Answer
Staying informed can make a big difference in keeping yourself safe. Here’s what you should know:
How Identity Theft Happens
Most identity theft happens online. Often when someone clicks links from text messages, emails, or even is catfished. The link you click could lead you to a fake website to input credentials or have you install an app that can retrieve your passwords to important accounts.
Identity Theft Scams on the Rise
• Synthetic Identity Theft: With synthetic identity theft, scammers mix real and fake information to create a new, false identity. They might use a real Social Security number alongside made-up details. This lets them open bank accounts, get credit cards, or even apply for loans—using a fake identity that feels all too real.
• Medical Identity Theft: Medical identity theft happens when someone uses your personal medical information to access healthcare services, prescription drugs, or medical devices. This can leave you with unexpected medical bills or inaccurate records, which can complicate future treatments. It’s a frustrating situation, but knowing what to look for can help.
• Account Takeover Fraud: In account takeover fraud, scammers take control of your online accounts, such as banking, email, or social media. This often happens through phishing emails, weak passwords, or data breaches. Once inside, they can drain your funds or steal even more personal details. It’s scary, but there are ways to protect yourself.
• Deepfake and AI-driven Identity Theft:
As technology advances, criminals use tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) to create deepfakes—fake videos or voices that look and sound just like real people. They can use these to trick others into believing they are someone else. It’s a high-tech problem, but you don’t need to be a tech expert to fight back.
Ways to Protect Yourself
No solution is foolproof, but there are 7 steps you can take to protect yourself and lower the chances of becoming a victim:
1. Use a Caller ID & Scam Blocking app: The Truecaller app helps identify unknown calls and messages, and will even identify scam numbers in real time. People around the
world actively report numbers as scams and write comments about their experience, and you can see statistics about scammers’ call patterns.
2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Use passwords that are tough to crack—mix letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid reusing passwords across accounts. A password manager can be a handy tool to create and store them safely.
3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. After entering your password, you’ll need to verify your identity again, like with a code sent to your phone. It’s like adding a second lock on your door, making it harder for scammers to break in.
4. Monitor Your Credit Regularly: Keep an eye on your credit reports for anything unusual, such as new accounts you didn’t open. It’s one of the quickest ways to spot identity theft early. Many places offer free credit monitoring services, so take advantage of them.
5. Consider Identity Theft Protection Services: Some services can keep an eye on your personal information and alert you if they spot something suspicious. While they can’t prevent identity theft, they can make the recovery process smoother if it happens to you.
6. Secure Your Devices: Keep your phone, computer, and other devices updated with the latest security patches. Use antivirus software and strong passwords to keep hackers out. It’s a simple habit that can go a long way.
7. Shred Important Documents: Even in today’s digital age, physical paperwork can still be a goldmine for thieves. Shred any documents with personal information—bank statements or medical bills—before you toss them out. Staying informed about the latest scams and being careful with your information can make a big difference. And if you do become a victim, don’t panic. Report it to the authorities or your credit bureau right away. They can help you limit the damage and start the recovery process. Learn More
For further facts and tips, visit www.truecaller. com.
FULLY FURNISHED RENTAL READY TO
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Featuring 2, Possibly 3 Bedrooms and 2 Spa-like Full Baths. The Kitchen is Fully Equipped with Natural Gas Cooking along with High Quality Appliances. You will Love Dining in this Formal Elegant Diningroom with Tons of Natural Sunlight. Enjoy the Warmer Weather in This Beautiful Backyard with a Slate Patio and Lush Gardens. This Home is Perfectly Located, Close to Transportation for an Easy Commute, Local Shops, Restaurants and Parks with Private Beach Access. Don’t Miss This Rare Opportunity to Rent A MOVE-IN READY Home in one of Long Island’s Most Sought After Communities! Schedule Your Private Tour Today!
