World Elder Abuse Awareness Day – June 15

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June 15th was designated as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization.
You, or someone you care about, could become the victim of this growing crime. Here at Abbeville First Bank, we are dedicated to spreading awareness about the devastating effects of elder financial exploitation.

What Is Elder Financial Abuse?

Elder financial abuse is estimated to have cost victims at least $2.9 billion last year alone. It’s a crime that deprives older adults as well the newly retired of their resources and ultimately their independence. Older Americans that may have disabilities or rely on others for help can be especially susceptible to scams and other fraud. Advances in technology and new tactics can also make it difficult for seniors to know whom to trust and what’s safe.
A very disturbing aspect of financial exploitation is that although scammers are undoubtedly a threat, an elder is more likely to be exploited by an individual they know such as an adult child, grandchild, or personal care assistant. Examples of this include the theft or improper use of an elder’s debit card, stolen and forged checks, and withholding or theft of their government benefits.
Anyone who sees signs of theft, fraud, misuse of a person’s assets or credit, or use of undue influence to gain control of an older person’s money or property should be on the alert.
One of the best ways we can all protect loved ones from becoming victims of exploitation is to simply be involved and do the following:
  • Call to check in
  • Ask if they need help
  • Tell them about scams targeting elders
  • Stop by for a visit

Tips for Seniors: How can you protect yourself?

  1. Plan ahead to protect your assets and to ensure your wishes are followed. Talk to someone at your financial institution, an attorney, or a financial advisor about the best options for you.
  2. Shred receipts, bank statements, and unused credit card offers before throwing them away.
  3. Carefully choose a trustworthy person to act as your agent in all estate planning matters.
  4. Lock up your checkbook, account statements, and other sensitive information when others will be in your home.
  5. Order copies of your credit report once a year to ensure accuracy.
  6. Never give personal information, including Social Security Number, account number, or other financial information to anyone over the phone unless you initiated the call and the other party is trusted.
  7. Never pay a fee or taxes to collect sweepstakes or lottery “winnings.”
  8. Never rush into a financial decision. Ask for details in writing and get a second opinion.
  9. Consult with a financial advisor or attorney before signing any document you don’t understand.
  10. Get to know your banker and build a relationship with the people who handle your finances. They can look out for any suspicious activity related to your account.
  11. Check references and credentials before hiring anyone. Don’t allow workers to have access to information about your finances.
  12. Pay with checks and credit cards instead of cash to keep a paper trail.
  13. Feel free to say “NO.” After all, it’s your money.
  14. You have the right not to be threatened or intimidated. If you think someone close to you is trying to take control of your finances, call your local Adult Protective Services (1-888-CARE4US (1-888-227-3487)) or tell someone at your bank.
  15. Trust your instincts. Exploiters and abusers often are very skilled. They can be charming and forceful in their effort to convince you to give up control of your finances. Don’t be fooled—if something doesn’t feel right, it may not be right. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

What should you do if you are a victim of financial abuse?

  • Talk about it with a trusted family member who has your best interests at heart, or to your clergy.
  • Talk to your attorney, doctor, or an officer at your bank.
  • Contact Adult Protective Services or your local police for help.
  • To report suspected Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation of a Vulnerable adult, call  1-888-CARE4US (1-888-227-3487).

Tips for Family and Friends:  What are the warning signs of financial abuse?

The key to spotting financial abuse is a change in a person’s established financial patterns. Watch out for these “red flags”:
  1. Unusual activity in an older person’s bank accounts, including large, frequent, or unexplained withdrawals.
  2. ATM withdrawals by an older person who has never used a debit or ATM card.
  3. Changing from a basic account to one that offers more complicated services the customer does not fully understand or need.
  4. Withdrawals from bank accounts or transfers between accounts the customer cannot explain.
  5. New “best friends” accompanying an older person to the bank.
  6. Sudden non-sufficient fund activity or unpaid bills.
  7. Closing CDs or accounts without regard to penalties.
  8. Uncharacteristic attempts to wire large sums of money.
  9. Suspicious signatures on checks, or outright forgery.
  10. Confusion, fear, or lack of awareness on the part of an older customer.
  11. Shame or reluctance to talk about the problem.
  12. Checks written as “loans” or “gifts.”
  13. Bank statements that no longer go to the customer’s home.
  14. New powers of attorney the older person does not understand.
  15. A caretaker, relative, or friend who suddenly begins conducting financial transactions on behalf of an older person without proper documentation.
  16. Altered wills and trusts.
  17. Loss of property.

What should you do if you suspect financial abuse?

Talk to elderly friends or loved ones if you see any of the signs mentioned here. Try to determine what specifically is happening with their financial situation, such as a new person “helping” them with money management, or a relative using cards or credit without their permission.
  • Report the elder financial abuse to their bank and enlist their banker’s help to stop it and prevent its recurrence.
  • Contact Adult Protective Services or your local police for help.
  • To report suspected Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation of a Vulnerable adult, call  1-888-CARE4US (1-888-227-3487).
  • Report all instances of elder financial abuse to your local police—if fraud is involved, they should investigate.
More information about elder abuse and scams: