A Suffolk County legislator is warning residents against a water pipe protection scam targeting seniors.

Legislator Cameron Alden (R-Islip) says many seniors have gotten letters from American Water Resources offering protection for only $5 a month should pipes break from normal wear and tear. However, Suffolk County Water Authority officials say normal wear and tear to the types of pipes used is very rare. Alden advises anyone who receives the letter to throw it away.

An American Water Resources spokesman says water line protection is a voluntary program and is intended to help consumers who have problems with their pipes. He adds that many homeowners do not know they are responsible for their own water lines.