Resources on Elder Financial Fraud and Abuse
There are more and more issues of fraud and scams in our society. Unfortunately, the rate of these attacks on our elderly citizens are high and the outlook doesn’t show that changing in the near future. Listed below are a various resources that can be used to determine if a “deal” is actually a scam or a fraud. Also listed are places to report any of these situations to try to stop others from suffering.
Administration on Community Living/U.S. Administration on Aging
eldercare.gov or call 1-800-677-1116
In partnership with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, ACL/AoA operates the Elder Care Locator to help with finding trust-worthy local support resources for seniors.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
consumerfinance.gov/older-americans or call 1-855-411-2372
Ensures that consumers get the information they need to make sound financial decisions. The CFPB’s Office of Older Americans is specifically dedicated to those age 65 and older.
Federal Bureau of Investigation
fbi.gov/scams-safety/fraud/seniors
This FBI website provides information on common fraud schemes that target senior citizens. It describes the scams and ways you can protect yourself. The website provides links to online reporting and local FBI offices.
Federal Crimes Enforcement Network
Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force investigates suspected financial fraud.
Federal Trade Commission
ftc.gov or 1-877-382-4357
Protects consumers from unfair, deceptive and fraudulent business practices and offers practical information on a variety of topics. For information on ID theft: ftc.gov/idtheft or call 1-877-438-4338
National Center on Elder Abuse
Click here for Wisconsin State Resources: Helplines, Hotlines and Information. NCEA is a resource for families, advocates, and medical, legal, and social service professionals. The website connects to information on elder abuse prevention and awareness and provides state-based reporting information, helplines, and hotlines.
Postal Inspection Service
Investigates mail fraud, identity theft, telemarketing schemes, and other crimes often targeted at elderly citizens. If you feel you have been victimized in a fraud scheme that involves the U.S. mail, submit a Mail Fraud Complaint Form with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
The SEC’s website was designed to help individuals invest wisely and avoid fraud.
National Do Not Call Registry
donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222
You can register your home or mobile phone for free. If you still get unwanted calls, you can file a complaint at this website.
