New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has issued a consumer alert regarding a potential scam that targeted Holocaust survivors and their families. An organization identifying itself as the "Jewish Holocaust Claims Center" allegedly solicited individuals seeking compensation.
The New York State Department of Financial Services stated that it was unable to verify the group's identity, services, or legitimacy. The department has since referred the matter to law enforcement and reported the group's website to its hosting provider, which has removed it. Investigations have also been initiated by the inspectors general of New York, New Jersey, and the U.S. Postal Service.
"Scamming and stealing from Holocaust survivors and their families is the lowest of the lows," Hochul said in a statement. She pledged to ensure that survivors receive the assistance and assets to which they are entitled.
Kaitlin Asrow, acting superintendent of the Department of Financial Services, advised survivors and their families to independently verify any unsolicited offers before disclosing personal or financial information.
New York's Department of Financial Services operates a Holocaust Claims Processing Office, established in 1997. This office assists Holocaust victims and their heirs in recovering assets such as bank accounts, insurance proceeds, and cultural property. The office does not charge claimants for its services and has facilitated the return of over $184 million in assets and the recovery of 356 cultural objects to victims' families.