Author: Danielle Antosz

Barbara Lipsky of Brighton, New York, knew something was wrong when she noticed several charges by E-ZPass — an electronic toll collection system — on her credit card in January and February. After four charges of $25 each, she called the service to ask for an explanation.

When the E-ZPass representative opened Lipsky’s account to investigate, the woman started laughing.

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“I asked, ‘What’s so funny?’” Lipsky recounted to News10NBC in a story published March 19. “She says, ‘Well, I just saw the picture. It’s a state police car with your license plate.’”

The license plate in question is 1M20, which somehow also got assigned to a state trooper vehicle. According to the local broadcaster, each time the state police car drove into Manhattan’s congestion pricing zone, it triggered the E-ZPass system — except Lipsky was the one charged. Brighton, it should be noted, is a five-and-a-half hour drive from Manhattan.

In total, Lipsky was charged nearly $150 by E-ZPass.

How did this mix-up happen?

Lipsky says her late husband originally received the 1M20 plate in the 1960s and she still uses it today. But somewhere along the line, a state police vehicle was issued the same license plate — something that isn’t supposed to happen.

The broadcaster says it received a statement from New York’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) explaining that when state police request a new fleet vehicle plate, they’re supposed to verify with the agency that the number isn’t already in use. But there was a mix-up in this case, and it had real consequences.

“It’s just spooky. It’s upsetting. It’s inconvenient. It’s all those things. And it’s starting to really cost me money,” Lipsky said.

Thankfully, after bringing up her case, News10NBC reports the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will reverse all charges against Lipsky. She was dinged 16 times for $144. The DMV also says it’s working to replace the state police vehicle’s duplicate license plate.

In a twist, state police told News10NBC the MTA has wrongly charged state police vehicles — which are supposed to be exempt from congestion pricing — upwards of $13,000 since the beginning of the year for driving in the Manhattan toll zone.

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How to protect yourself from erroneous toll charges

Mistakes like this are rare — but they still happen. Whether it’s a plate mix-up, a misread toll camera or the act of a fraudster, it’s important to catch these types of problems quickly and know how to resolve them.

Monitor your cards and toll pass accounts

Keep an eye on both your E-ZPass (or other toll accounts, like SunPass) and the credit card on file. Reviewing statements regularly will help you catch issues early.

Gather evidence

Collect any evidence, such as screenshots or toll photos from your account (if you have access to them) bank statements and photos of your car. Having evidence ready before you call to complain can help speed up the resolution.

Contact the toll agency

Each region has a different toll authority. Be prepared to explain the situation, provide any evidence and follow up if you don’t get a timely response.

Set up alerts for your cards

Some banks let you set up alerts for purchases over a certain amount or for specific vendors. These notifications can help you catch not just toll issues but also other types of fraud.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

A Chicago couple is urging legislators to take action after squatters allegedly moved into their South Side house and refused to leave. Marcia Lee and her husband, Carlton Lee, never thought they’d be facing off against a family of squatters when they listed their home for sale.

"We have been fighting to get these people to get out of our property," Marcia Lee told ABC 7 reporters. "I am livid right now."

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Marcia discovered the squatters when she came by the home to show it to a prospective buyer. To her surprise, she found a family of three — and their dog — living inside.

How did the squatters gain access?

According to the Lees, the woman inside the home claimed to be the rightful owner and showed police what appeared to be a mortgage document. But when Marcia looked closely, she saw the document listed an incorrect property PIN number — one that matched a property in Country Club Hills, not the South Side.

“This documentation is not valid, so she’s trespassing on my property,” Marcia told ABC 7. Despite this, Chicago police said they still couldn’t remove the family without a court order, calling it a civil matter.

"We saw [the ABC 7 I-Team’s] story before," Carlton told reporters. "We like your coverage. That’s why you were the first one we called."

Illinois State Representative La Shawn Ford, who met with the Lees at their home, is now pushing legislation that would give property owners more power in situations like these.

"It’s happening across the state, and it puts owners and landlords in a bad position," Ford told ABC 7.

His proposed bill would allow police to immediately remove squatters once the rightful owner provides proof of ownership — helping victims like the Lees avoid lengthy legal battles currently required under the Forcible Entry Act.

The bill has passed Illinois Senate and is currently waiting on a vote from the House, but he’s received some concerns from homeless advocates who say the rule might increase homelessness in the state.

ABC 7 tried to reach out to the woman living in the home, but she did not return their calls.

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How to protect your home from squatters

For homeowners, the cost of a squatter situation can be staggering. Not only are Marcia and Carlton potentially facing thousands in legal fees and property damage, but they also risk losing potential sales or rental income.

While state laws may change in the future, there are steps homeowners can take now to reduce the risk of squatters.

Secure uninhabited properties

Vacant homes are prime targets for squatters. To secure your property, install deadbolts on all doors and lock all windows. Outdoor cameras and motion sensor lights can deter squatters and provide evidence for law enforcement.

Ask neighbors to keep an eye out

Trusted neighbors can be your eyes when you’re not around. Ask them to report any suspicious activity, especially if your property is vacant or listed for sale.

Weigh the pros and cons of "for sale" signs

While signage may attract buyers, it can also alert potential squatters that a property is unoccupied. Consider digital marketing or using an agent to coordinate viewings discreetly.

Consider specialized insurance

Some insurance policies offer limited protection for vandalism or theft in vacant homes, but it may be worth looking into vacant home insurance if the property is not occupied.

Know your property rights

In Illinois, removing a squatter often means going through the civil court system, which can take months. Until new legislation passes, owners must file for eviction — even when someone entered illegally. This legal gray area favors squatters once they gain access.

As for the Lees, they’re not giving up. “We want action,” Carlton said.

They’re hoping their story leads to real change for other homeowners in similar situations.

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When Caledonia Spirits, a Vermont-based distillery known for its Barr Hill Gin, spent four months preparing an order for shipment to Quebec, the company expected their bottles to reach customers across the border.

Instead, after President Donald Trump announced tariffs on Canada in early February, the order was abruptly canceled.

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This decision is leaving the business with potentially unsellable inventory and an uncertain future in the Canadian market, even after the Trump Administration announced a 90-day pause on many non-China tariffs.

The company creates bottles and labels to meet Canadian regulations, meaning they can’t easily repurpose the spirits in other markets.

The situation is not unique to Caledonia Spirits. Vermont’s Secretary of Commerce, Lindsay Kurrle, described the issue as a major disruption for small businesses exporting to Canada. “Vermont producers who have prepared alcohol to be sold in Canada are left with this alcohol that can’t just be sold here,” Kurrle said at a press conference. “It’s not an easy fix. It costs money. It takes investments.”’

How do the tariffs impact Vermont businesses?

As small businesses across Vermont and the U.S. deal with the financial consequences of shifting trade policies, understanding the impact of tariffs and preparing for sudden changes is proving critical.

Governor Phil Scott acknowledged the challenges, stating that these tariffs are straining relationships between Vermont producers and Canadian retailers.

“It’s creating this divide, and they’re taking your product off their shelves because they don’t want it there anymore,” Scott said. “It’s unfortunate. These are our friends.”

When businesses depend on exports, tariffs can shut down vital revenue streams. Finding alternative buyers in a short timeframe isn’t always feasible, especially when products are customized for foreign markets.

Businesses that are able to export their goods or rely on imports are often left with two choices: absorb the cost of tariffs and take a financial hit or pass those costs onto their customers through increased prices, which can make them less competitive. Neither option is ideal.

Kurrle says she’s been in contact with the consul general for Canada and is working to find a solution for Vermont businesses.

"Our goal is to try to find out what does Premier Legault need to see from us to try to get Vermont products back on the shelves," Kurrle explained.

Governor Scott also created an interagency task force, led by Kurrle, to monitor the impact of tariffs on Vermont businesses and consumers.

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Financial strategies to reduce the impact of tariffs

Trade policies often change, and it can be frustrating for businesses to navigate. However, some steps can reduce your exposure to tariff-related disruptions.

Explore domestic growth opportunities

Since tariffs primarily affect cross-border trade, focusing on domestic expansion can help businesses maintain revenue. Seeking partnerships within the U.S. can offset lost international sales. For example, distilleries could collaborate with American hospitality chains, restaurants, or local retailers to increase domestic distribution. Another option is expanding your product offering to appeal to a larger customer base.

Apply for tariff exemptions

Some industries or specific products may qualify for tariff exemptions. In 2019, Apple successfully applied for tariff exemptions on certain imports. While smaller businesses generally lack the lobbying power of major corporations, industry groups and coalitions can sometimes advocate for exemptions. It may be worth researching available programs or consulting trade organizations for assistance.

Negotiate with suppliers

Businesses can also look at renegotiating their own supplier contracts to mitigate the impact of tariffs. This may include negotiating bulk purchase discounts, requesting suppliers to share some of the tariff burden, or locking in long-term contracts that secure stable pricing.

Optimize your supply chain

Reducing operational costs in other areas can help offset the financial impact of tariffs. Businesses should examine their supply chain for inefficiencies, such as unnecessary expenses in shipping, packaging, or inventory management. Exploring automation, adjusting logistics strategies, or reducing overordering can help minimize costs.

Leverage government assistance programs

Federal and state-level programs may offer financial relief for businesses affected by tariffs. Programs such as Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, export assistance grants, or state trade expansion programs (STEP) can provide funding and assistance to help businesses adjust.

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President Donald Trump’s tariffs could drive up prices on everything from car parts to groceries, and Gary Gragg has found a way to reduce the impact — by helping others grow their own food.

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He’s focusing on a California favorite: avocados. He’s offering consumers a sustainable and long-term alternative to shouldering any cost increases: locally-grown avocado trees ready to bear fruit.

"One thing you can do if you live in California as we do here, in this beautiful environment we have, you can grow your own," Gary Gragg, the owner of Golden Gate Palms Nursery in Richmond, told ABC7.

Avocados and other agricultural goods from Mexico are currently exempt from U.S. tariffs since they are compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), but that may be temporary. Trump had initially said he would slap 25% tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico before agreeing to pause them.

"The vast majority of avocados eaten by U.S. citizens come from Mexico, including an estimated $2.7 billion worth of avocados imported in 2024. In fact, free trade with Mexico is partly responsible for the rise of avocados in the U.S. diet," said the Council on Foreign Relations.

How one man looks to crack the system — with trees

Imported produce is among the many categories that may be affected by tariffs, and that includes avocados. Gragg saw the price pressure coming and highlighted California’s advantage: the region’s Mediterranean climate.

“Generally, there’s an avocado you can grow anywhere in low-elevation Bay Area,” Gragg told ABC7. The San Francisco Chronicle once called him a “horticulturist and avocado obsessive.”

But instead of selling tiny seedlings that need plenty of attention and care, Gragg’s nursery offers trees starting at 5 feet tall. The price tag ranges from $250 to $950, depending on size.

Golden Gate Palms Nursery reportedly has hundreds of avocado trees ready for sale. But it’s not just about the plants — it’s about a mindset shift. Gragg’s YouTube channel, True Plant Stories, has over 11,000 subscribers and is dedicated to educating viewers on how to grow their own fruit trees successfully.

It’s a long-term investment — but one that could pay off in food security and savings.

By turning his nursery into more than a business — essentially a how-to hub for aspiring backyard growers — Gragg is giving consumers the tools to take control of their food supply. His consumer-driven model offers a clear path around rising import costs and serves as an example of how businesses can adapt to policy shifts.

"Everybody needs an avocado tree, for not only the tariffs to save some money but for the environmental ethic and the fact that you’ll be the coolest kid on the block if you’re giving avocados away," he said.

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How to navigate rising prices due to Trump’s tariffs

Gragg’s solution — growing your own avocados — is just one approach. Here are more ideas to help you navigate rising prices:

Start a garden

Whether you have a backyard or a sunny windowsill, growing food can reduce grocery bills. Start small with easy-to-grow herbs, tomatoes, or even potatoes in a 5-gallon bucket. Starting from seed is the cheapest route — just a few dollars can yield weeks of fresh produce.

Get chickens, if you can

Many urban and suburban areas now permit backyard hens. They require a bit of learning and setup, but the return is fresh eggs and a deeper connection to your food. Check to see if your local ordinances and homeowners association (HOA) allow it, and look for DIY coops to save on start-up costs.

Shift purchases to local farmers

Buying from farmers markets or signing up for a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) box can keep your money in the local economy while often reducing costs on fresh produce compared to grocery store markups.

Join community trade groups

Buy Nothing groups and local barter exchanges are great ways to get what you need without spending money—whether it’s clothing, toys, or tools. It can also help you connect with your community, which can be crucial during economically trying times.

Repair and reuse

Before tossing items, look into DIY repairs or upcycling ideas. A simple fix can extend the life of clothing, electronics, or furniture and cut down on spending. Search online for repair tips or a local repair cafe or clinic where community members volunteer to help with repairs.

Gragg’s avocado tree solution may not be for everyone, but the principle behind it can help us all: When prices go up, look closer to home. Whether it’s a fruit tree in your yard or a shift to community-driven solutions, simple steps can cut costs and build more resilience into your daily life.

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Mitchell Guttenberg, co-owner of Bullpen Sports HQ in El Segundo, California, wasn’t about to get fooled twice.

When two familiar faces walked into his store on April 10, he called the police, according to KTLA 5, and in doing so he may have helped crack a major theft case.

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Officers apprehended the pair at the store and uncovered a staggering haul: hundreds of stolen ID cards, stolen passports, methamphetamine, a loaded handgun and over $500,000 worth of rare sports cards and memorabilia packed.

It was a dramatic end to a series of actions that had quietly started weeks earlier. Here’s what happened.

How the events unfolded

Guttenberg first encountered the suspected criminals — a man and a woman — in late March when they visited Bullpen Sports HQ hoping to sell a large batch of sports cards.

“They were calm,” Guttenberg recalled to KTLA 5 in a story published April 23. “They said their father had passed away and he had been collecting for years.”

Trusting their story, Guttenberg says he bought the cards. It wasn’t until later that he learned the items were reported stolen. So, when the same pair returned to the store two weeks later, Guttenberg didn’t hesitate — he called the cops.

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According to police, when officers arrived, the male suspect tried to flee the store. Surveillance footage obtained by the local broadcaster captured the moment officers tackled him just outside the entrance. During the struggle, the man allegedly reached toward his waistband, where there was a fully loaded handgun. Officers subdued and arrested him without serious injuries.

Furthermore, police say that inside the suspects’ vehicle — a stolen car — officers discovered the previously mentioned haul stolen goods and drugs.

The male suspect was arrested on charges including being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of stolen property, drug charges, driving a stolen vehicle and resisting arrest, according to KTLA 5. The woman was arrested for possession of stolen property, possession of hard drugs with two or more prior convictions and possession of identity theft materials with a previous conviction.

How to avoid purchasing pinched goods

Guttenberg had no idea the cards he purchased were stolen — and in many cases, it’s hard for buyers to tell. But there are steps you can take to protect yourself as a businessperson and collector.

• Shop at trusted stores: Most stores have policies in place to protect themselves from theft. While they aren’t always foolproof, it’s a first line of defense.
• Ask for proof of ownership: Request a receipt, bill of sale or serial numbers. Authentic collectors should have no problem providing documentation you can use to verify their wares are legit.
• Look for red flags: Suspiciously low prices, missing original packaging or inconsistent stories from the seller are signs that something might be wrong. Don’t risk your money on suspect purchases.
• Verify authenticity: For high-value items, it may be worth getting a second opinion from an expert before you buy. An appraiser or other industry expert can help confirm if memorabilia is legit.
• Search online: Use searchable databases or check special-interest online forums to see if similar items have been reported stolen. This can also help you spot price discrepancies.
• Trust your gut: If something feels off, it probably is. Walking away is better than getting tangled up in stolen goods unknowingly.

While it’s not always possible to spot a scam, being cautious can protect you — and your wallet — from becoming part of someone else’s crime story.

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The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is laying off hundreds of workers. Though details are limited, United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) President Cecil E. Roberts said in a recent statement,

“NIOSH began laying off hundreds of workers who are engaged in research and the improvement of products and practices that literally save the lives of coal miners every day.”

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Roberts added that NIOSH announced “significant downsizing” of offices in Morgantown, West Virginia and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The layoffs come amid a sweeping federal reorganization effort led by Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as part of the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Workforce Optimization Initiative.

But what are the job cuts supposed to accomplish?

Why are these layoffs happening?

According to an HHS statement, the "Make America Healthy Again" plan aims to reduce the federal health workforce by 20,000 employees overall — shrinking HHS from 82,000 to 62,000 full-time staff. It will also consolidate 28 HHS divisions into 15 new ones, while regional offices will be reduced from 10 to just 5.

As part of the plan, NIOSH is being folded into a new agency called the Administration for a Healthy America (AHA), alongside the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and other offices. HHS says the changes will save taxpayers $1.8 billion per year and improve efficiency by reducing “redundant units.”

However, critics argue that the cost savings come at the expense of public and workplace safety — especially in places like Morgantown, where NIOSH plays a key role in researching coal worker health, respiratory disease and workplace hazards.

“I do not think that these actions are being done in a coordinated way to hurt the American coal industry and those who work in it. But that is the effect,” Roberts said in the release. “Miners have and can continue to produce the materials to power American homes, produce American steel and so many other products our society uses every day.”

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How layoffs will impact workers — and how to protect yourself

Layoffs at NIOSH threaten not only the job security of hundreds of employees, but also the health and safety of coal miners and other high-risk workers who rely on the agency’s research.

Morgantown’s facility employed around 500 workers, reported MetroNews. Its research informed safety regulations, protective equipment standards and disease prevention strategies across several industries.

Roberts believes the downsizing could cripple progress in mine safety as the coal industry "relies on the research done there to improve its safety practices.”

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito R-W.Va. told 12 News in a statement that the cuts would harm “vital health programs,” adding that “any cuts that impact [coal workers’] health monitoring need to be restored immediately.”

In addition to the safety concerns, the economic impact could be significant for Morgantown and surrounding areas. Losing hundreds of high-paying federal jobs affects not just those laid off, but also local businesses that depend on NIOSH employees as customers. From diners and daycare centers to home service providers, many small businesses could feel the ripple effects of the layoffs.

Here are a few ways locals can manage the disruption:

• Know your rights. If you’re injured or face exposure to hazardous conditions, report it immediately to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Employers must still comply with its standards.
• Connect with state and nonprofit resources. West Virginia’s Department of Health, WorkForce West Virginia, the PA Workforce Development Association and organizations like the Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center may be able to offer guidance, legal help or job retraining opportunities.
• Protect your health on the job. With fewer researchers to monitor workplace hazards, it’s more important than ever to take precautions. Use proper PPE, attend all safety training and document any incidents or exposure you experience or witness.
• Consider looking for new opportunities. Sen. Capito and West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey both say they’re working to help affected workers find new employment. While these roles may take time to materialize, job retraining programs or federal grants may be offered soon. Pay attention to state announcements and job boards.

As Trump and DOGE aim to reshape federal agencies, communities like Morgantown are left to navigate the fallout and fight to protect the workers and industries who have long powered the country.

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Tiffany Wirtz was counting on her SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits to help her get through the month.

But when she went to buy groceries in February her account had already been emptied, reports KSL TV 5. The money was spent at a business in New York, leaving her with just $1.30 to feed herself and her 12-year-old son for an entire month.

“It doesn’t make any sense why you would take from people that already are struggling. We’re already barely keeping our heads above water just in our daily life.” Wirtz told reporters. “And then just a hit like that is… it’s devastating, really.”

She’s far from alone. According to the Utah Department of Workforce Services, an average of 700 reports of stolen EBT benefits were filed each month from October 2024 through January 2025.

The problem peaked in December when more than 1,000 Utahns reported the theft of their SNAP benefits. These benefits are distributed monthly through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card at authorized grocery stores and retailers.

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How does the scam work — and what are officials doing to stop it?

Thieves often use skimming devices — small, hidden card readers attached to store card machines — to steal EBT card numbers and PINs.

Some also use phishing texts or calls to trick recipients into revealing their card details. Once scammers have this information, they can clone the card and drain the account, often within hours of the monthly deposit being made.

However, when EBT fraud occurs, victims have little recourse. The federal funds once used to reimburse stolen benefits ran out in December 2024, and the state has not stepped in to fill the gap.

In a December memo, the U.S. Department of Agriculture told states they could use their own funds to replace stolen SNAP benefits. But Utah didn’t.

“In order to be able to do that, the Department of Workforce Services would need to have funds,” said Kevin Burt, deputy director of the department. “And there were not funds approved to be able to issue that type of reimbursement.”

Burt added that the department hadn’t requested those funds during the last legislative session because the deadline for funding requests came before officials realized the federal money would run out.

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The USDA recently announced that states can now opt to upgrade their SNAP EBT cards to include chip technology, which could help deter card skimming. The federal government will reimburse states for half the cost of this upgrade. Utah officials say they’re exploring the option but haven’t committed to adopting chip cards yet.

In the meantime, the Department of Workforce Services is working with its EBT card vendor to improve card security. But for some Utahns, the move is not enough and comes too late.

“It’s not fair. It’s not our fault,” Wirtz said. “There should be some type of way for us to lock our card for us to protect ourselves.”

How to protect your EBT/SNAP benefits

Until more secure systems are in place, SNAP recipients must be vigilant about keeping their cards — and their benefits — secure. Here are a few ways to protect yourself from EBT fraud.

Create a complex PIN and keep it a secret: Never share your card number or PIN with anyone who doesn’t live with you. At the store, cover the keypad when entering your PIN to keep prying eyes away.

Watch for phishing attempts: State agencies will never call, text or email you asking for your PIN or full card number. Be cautious of messages asking for personal information, including emails and pop-ups on your computer.

Change your PIN often: Consider changing your PIN monthly, right before your deposit hits. This can help prevent thieves from using stolen data to access your funds.

Check your balance frequently: Monitor your EBT account for unauthorized charges or changes to your information. If you see any suspicious activity, change your PIN immediately and contact your local SNAP office.

Report theft right away: If you think your benefits were stolen, contact your local SNAP office or the USDA Office of Inspector General. You should also consider filing a police report.

For now, families like Wirtz’s are being forced to wait until the next month’s payment and rely on local food banks, which isn’t always enough. As discussions continue about card security upgrades and potential policy changes, victims need to stay wary and take precautions.

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At 73, Jose Fimbres refuses to slow down. The father and former semi-truck driver starts his day at 4 a.m., delivering for DoorDash in National City, California to stay active and support himself, proving that determination has no age limit.

"I gotta do something to keep moving," Fimbres told CBS8. "If I didn’t do it, I would be sitting in a wheelchair…I like that I’m still supporting myself. If I want to eat something, I’m gonna get it. I’m not gonna ask my daughters or my sons."

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But a recent early-morning delivery to the De La Torre family changed everything. After his wife placed the order, Luis De La Torre, who owns Louie’s Garage body shop, watched a video from his Ring camera of Fimbres carefully navigating their porch steps. The footage deeply inspired him.

How one delivery inspired a community

The short video, later shared on social media, shows Fimbres slowly climbing the steps up to the De La Torres’ front door and setting the food down. De La Torre posted the video on TikTok, and it quickly went viral, garnering over a million views.

The video’s caption reads, "Wifey ordered door dash snacks for the kids today i was like can u stop ordering from there till i saw this. Jose got a tip today props to the old man getting his hussle [sic] early in the am probably cuz he has to not bc he wants to #Mexican power"

Luis De La Torre explained to CBS8 News why he shared it.

"I saw the video and somebody that old to see working still, you know. And he barely could walk up our stairs,” he said.

More than 2,000 people reached out to De La Torre asking how they could help.

Moved by the overwhelming response, De La Torre set up a GoFundMe campaign. In just three days, nearly 1,500 people raised $26,000 for Fimbres. When De La Torre presented him with the check, the man was stunned.

“Oh my goodness,” Fimbres said, laughing. “It’s too much! How much I owe you?”

“That’s yours,” De La Torre assured him. “Everybody helped out. Everybody raised money for you.”

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Why are so many older Americans working longer?

While this story is heartwarming, it highlights an uncomfortable reality: financial insecurity is forcing many older Americans to work longer than expected.

A survey by AARP found that one in five Americans aged 50 and older have no retirement savings, leaving them with few options but to remain in the workforce.

This trend is reflected in national employment data — CBS News reports that one in five people over the age of 65 are still working, doubling the number from the 1980s.

"It’s not unambiguously a good thing that more seniors are working,” Pew senior researcher Richard Fry told CBS MoneyWatch. "Partly some of this is that they are choosing to continue to work, but some of them may need to work even if they don’t want to because of the precarious state of our retirement system."

The financial strain also extends to middle-aged adults. According to Pew Research, nearly one in seven are financially supporting both an aging parent and a child, adding to the growing burden on families.

The best way to prevent financial strain in later years is to start planning for retirement early. Encourage young people to open an IRA or contribute to a 401(k) if available. Even small contributions can grow over time.

Families can also support aging loved ones by discussing financial planning openly, helping them access benefits they may qualify for and ensuring they have a safety net.

Many states and communities offer assistance for older adults, including lower property taxes, low-income housing assistance, transportation services and energy assistance programs.

While community-driven efforts, like the one that helped Fimbres, show the power of collective generosity, long-term solutions require systemic changes and individual preparation.

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As if the job market wasn’t tough enough, now job seekers must compete with con artists using stolen identities, AI and deepfake techniques to get hired.

Even technology companies can fall for the scams. Pindrop Security, a company that helps detect fraud in voice interactions, has encountered such situations firsthand.

The company shortlisted a candidate named ‘Ivan’ for a senior engineering position and set up a video interview.

But as the CEO Vijay Balasubramaniyan shared with CNBC, something felt off during the video interview.

The candidate’s facial expressions didn’t quite match his voice. Turned out Balasubramaniyan’s gut feeling was right. The person on screen was using deepfake technology to conceal his own identity by using someone else’s face.

The Pindrop team caught it. But not everyone that’s hiring a worker remotely has the same expertise or technology to root out fraud.

“We are no longer able to trust our eyes and ears,” Balasubramaniyan said. “Without technology, you’re worse off than a monkey with a random coin toss.”

The tricks of the deepfake trade

Fraudulent candidates now use a range of generative AI tools to scam their way through nearly every part of the hiring process.

AI can fabricate photo IDs, generate polished LinkedIn profiles and even simulate real-time answers in video interviews. Some scammers use remote desktops to route their traffic through the U.S., making it appear as if they’re logging in from within the country.

These scammers aren’t just stealing jobs. Once hired, imposters can install malware, steal sensitive customer data or divert money to foreign adversaries — like North Korea.

“Every time we list a job posting, we get 100 North Korean spies applying to it,” said Lili Infante, CEO of CAT Labs, a Florida-based startup related to cybersecurity and cryptocurrency.

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The U.S. Justice Department alleges that 300 American companies hired people linked to the North Korean regime. The department says the workers stole American identities to get remote IT jobs and then funneled million to North Korea.

How AI imposters are affecting the job market

The rise in fake applicants doesn’t just pose a cybersecurity threat. It could slow down hiring across the board.

The cost of Legitimate candidates face longer wait times as companies are forced to double-check résumés, verify identities, and flag suspicious activity. These delays drive up costs.

Some companies are turning to third-party verification services like Jumio, Socure, and iDenfy. Others, like Pindrop, are developing in-house video authentication tools.

But as deepfake and identity-masking tools improve, experts warn the problem may get worse before it gets better.

The research and consultancy firm Gartner predicts that by 2028, one in four job candidates globally will be fake.

“Folks think they’re not experiencing it,” said Ben Sesser, CEO of BrightHire, an HR tech company, “but I think it’s probably more likely that they’re just not realizing that it’s going on.”

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