In recognition of June 15 being World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the FBI is reminding elderly Americans and their loved ones about elder fraud.
This type of fraud takes many forms as criminals seek to take advantage of this vulnerable and growing population. The FBI is committed to educating the public about these scams and investigating financial fraud schemes against seniors.
Not only are there devastating financial consequences, but these victims and their loved ones can suffer great emotional and mental effects because of these scams.
The FBI investigates various types of financial scams targeting seniors, including investment scams, technical/ customer support schemes, money mule and romance scams, among others. According to 2024 data from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), there was $4.885 billion in losses from 147,127 complaints — a 46% increase in complaints from 2023, as well as a 43% increase in losses.
The FBI continues to work with local and federal partners to tackle elder fraud and stop those who attempt to harm the elderly.
“Educating the American public, and specifically our seniors about the devastating effects of elder fraud schemes are critical to protecting them and their hard-earned money,” said Jose Perez, assistant director of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division.
“There are far-reaching consequences of these elaborate schemes, which can decimate the life savings of the elderly,” Perez said. “The FBI works with our local and federal partners to make sure our seniors, their caregivers, families and friends know the signs to look for to keep Americans safe from falling victim to these deceitful criminals.”
Seniors are frequently targeted by criminal actors, as they are often perceived to be more polite and trusting. These actors may also assume that seniors are more financially stable, own real estate, spend a great deal of time alone and are less likely to report fraud if they feel ashamed or are unfamiliar with reporting channels such as IC3.gov.
Fraud can happen to anyone, and small steps can be taken to protect yourself and your information: * SEARCH ONLINE for the contact information (name, phone number, email, addresses) of any unknown source which reaches out to you, as well as the proposed offer.
Verify the legitimacy of businesses on websites such as Better Business Bureau. Other people have likely posted information online about businesses and individuals attempting to run scams.
* RESIST the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a sense of urgency to lure victims into immediate action, typically by instilling trust and inducing empathy or fear, or the promise of monetary gains, companionship, or employment opportunities.
* BE CAUTIOUS of unsolicited phone calls, mailings, and door-to-door service offers.
* NEVER GIVE or send to unverified people or businesses any personally identifiable information, money, checks, gift cards or wire information.
* TAKE PRECAUTIONARY measures to protect your identity should a criminal gain access to your device or account. Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts and monitor for suspicious activity.
If you believe you are a victim of fraud, or know a senior who may be, regardless of financial loss, immediately report the incident to your local FBI field office or other law enforcement agency by calling 1-800-CALL FBI; online, at: tips.fbi.gov or to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at: ic3.gov.
Comment
Comments