Identity theft has become increasingly more common. And who is the most susceptible in our communities to being a victim? Elders.
What Is Elder Identity Theft?
Elder identify theft is when someone poses as an Elder to steal their money or get out of a sticky situation—like an arrest or unpaid bill.
Elders Are the Most Vulnerable
Elders are the most vulnerable group in our communities to this type of scam because they:
- May be dealing with a physical ailment
- May have a disability
- May have someone else managing their finances or day-to-day living
- May have decreased mental functioning
- May feel obligated to give money to family members
What to Watch For
Ask yourself if an Elder in your life may be exhibiting any of these behaviors. If so, it may be an indication that they’ve already become a victim of identity theft.
- Large amounts of money withdrawn or transferred from their accounts, and they can’t explain it.
- Drastic change in a credit score.
- Frequent calls or letters from debt collectors.
- Someone else opening or closing accounts in their name.
- Insufficient funds or unpaid bills.
- Worry or confusion about their finances.
- All of a sudden, they no longer want to talk about money.
- Fear of a caregiver, or appearance of strange new relationships.
If you believe an Elder in your life is a victim, visit www.IdentityTheft.gov as the first step to reporting and recovering identity theft.
