Financial exploitation is the fastest-growing form of elder abuse and it is defined as the illegal, unauthorized, or improper use of an older person's funds, property, or assets. It’s a crime that deprives older adults of their resources and ultimately their independence. Perpetrators may be family members, friends, neighbors, caregivers, health care providers, business associates, or strangers.
Tips for Family and Friends
What are the warning signs of elder financial exploitation? Look for changes in patterns of behavior. Watch out for these “red flags”:
- Unusual activity in an older person’s bank accounts, including large, frequent or unexplained withdrawals.
- ATM withdrawals by an older person who has never used a debit or ATM card.
- Changing from a basic account to one that offers more complicated services the customer does not fully understand or need.
- Withdrawals from bank accounts or transfers between accounts the customer cannot explain.
- New “best friends” accompanying an older person to the bank.
- Sudden non-sufficient fund activity or unpaid bills.
- Closing CDs or accounts without regard to penalties.
- Uncharacteristic attempts to wire large sums of money.
- Suspicious signatures on checks, or outright forgery.
- Confusion, fear or lack of awareness on the part of an older customer.
- Refusal to make eye contact, shame or reluctance to talk about the problem.
- Checks written as “loans” or “gifts.”
- Bank statements that no longer go to the customer’s home.
- New powers of attorney the older person does not understand.
- A caretaker, relative or friend who suddenly begins conducting financial transactions on behalf of an older person without proper documentation.
- Altered wills and trusts.
- Loss of property.
What should you do if you suspect elder financial exploitation?
- Talk to your older loved ones. Try to determine what specifically is happening with their financial situation.
- Report elder financial exploitation to their bank.
- Contact Adult Protective Services.
- Reach out to the police and file a report with the FBI at IC3.Gov.
Source: American Bankers Association