New Jersey: In a powerful call to action against rising financial fraud, a major Scam Awareness Program was recently organized to address the growing crisis of innocent senior citizens being scammed and naïve students being exploited as financial couriers across the United States. The impactful event brought together community leaders, educators, students, families, and advocates, united by one mission: to protect vulnerable populations from falling prey to organized cyber and financial crimes.
This life changing event was organized by ‘Help Before Scam’ founder Anil Mangukia on February 8th, 2026, at Marywood, New Jersey.
The program was honored by the presence of Harold D’Souza and Dancy D’Souza, Co-Founders of Eyes Open International, who were invited as Guests of Honor. Harold D’Souza served as the keynote speaker, delivering a deeply moving and educational address rooted in his own journey from victimhood to global advocacy.
A Growing Crisis: Seniors and Students at Risk
Across the United States, thousands of senior citizens are losing their life savings to scammers posing as government officials, bank representatives, technical support agents, or even family members. These criminals exploit fear, trust, and limited digital awareness to manipulate victims into transferring money, sharing personal information, or opening fraudulent accounts.
At the same time, many students, often unaware of the legal consequencesare being recruited online and through social networks as “money mules” or couriers. Promised quick cash or internships, they unknowingly transport illegal funds, becoming entangled in criminal investigations that jeopardize their futures.
Speakers at the event emphasized that one scam can destroy not just an individual, but entire families and generations.
Harold D’Souza: A Voice of Experience and Hope
In his keynote address, Harold D’Souza shared how Eyes Open International (EOI) believes in empowering victims, survivors, vulnerable populations, and community members globally through education, awareness, and compassion.
“Prevention is always better than recovery,” Harold said. “When we educate our seniors, guide our youth, and strengthen families, we weaken the power of criminals.”
Harold firmly reiterated EOI’s core values, adding:“We do not take a single penny when working with victims or survivors. Our mission is service, dignity, and restoration, never profit.”
Drawing from his own experience as a survivor of labor trafficking and exploitation, Harold reminded the audience that anyone can become vulnerable, regardless of background, education, or status.
Standing Together with Help Before Scam
Harold extended his full support to Help Before Scam and its founder, Anil Mangukia, applauding their dedication to early intervention and public education.
“Organizations like Help Before Scam are saving lives and livelihoods,” Harold stated. “When communities collaborate, criminals lose their hiding places.”
Practical Protection Tips for Senior Citizens
The program shared several vital precautions for senior citizens and families:
Never Share Personal Information. Do not disclose Social Security numbers, banking details, OTPs, or passwords over phone calls, emails, or messages.
Verify Before You Trust. Always confirm unexpected requests by contacting official institutions directly using verified numbers.
Beware of Urgency and Threats. Scammers create panic by claiming immediate action is required. Take time to think and consult family members.
Avoid Unknown Links and Attachments. Do not click on suspicious emails or text messages, even if they appear legitimate.
Report Immediately. If something feels wrong, report it to banks, law enforcement, and trusted organizations without delay.
Stay Connected. Regular conversations with family members reduce isolation and help identify warning signs early.
A Message to Students and Youth
The event also urged students to remain vigilant about online job offers, easy-money schemes, and requests to move funds. Participants were reminded that ignorance of the law does not protect against prosecution and that integrity is more valuable than short-term financial gain.
Harold summarized this truth with a powerful statement:“A short-term pain is a long-term gain, but a short-term gain is a long-term pain.”
Building Resilient Communities
Throughout the program, speakers highlighted that scam prevention is not the responsibility of individuals alone, it is a shared commitment of families, schools, faith institutions, nonprofits, and law enforcement agencies.
Dancy D’Souza reinforced this message, emphasizing compassion, listening, and community solidarity as pillars of prevention. “When people feel supported, they are less likely to fall into traps,” she noted.
A Journey That Inspires Millions
As the event concluded, participants reflected on Harold D’Souza’s extraordinary life story, one that continues to inspire millions around the world. From surviving exploitation to leading global movements for justice, his life embodies the power of resilience and purpose.
The D’Souza Families, inspirational story from: Pain to Pleasure, Hurt to Happiness, Slavery to Success, Fear to Freedom and Trauma to Triumph is a breathtaking motivation of turning obstacles into opportunities.
Harold D’Souza’s journey reminds us that no past is permanent, no wound is wasted, and no darkness is stronger than hope. Through awareness, courage, and compassion, communities can rise, protecting dreams, preserving dignity, and securing a safer future for generations to come.