WebsiteCompass 5 If you or someone you know becomes a victim of elder financial abuse, it’s important to report it so authorities know where to focus their efforts. Here’s how to share your experience. Call These Agencies to Report Elder Financial Abuse The National Elder Fraud Hotline This hotline is a free resource operated by the DOJ, Office for Victims of Crime. When you call, you will speak with a professional trained to support fraud victims. They will talk you through the reporting process and connect you with additional resources if needed. The number to call is 1-833-372-8311. National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) The NAPSA is a national nonprofit organization that provides Adult Protective Services (APS) programs a central repository for sharing information and addressing elder mistreatment. To report an incident, visit napsa-now.org/help-in-your-area to get specific contact information for your state. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) If you or someone you know has been the victim of pyramid schemes, false or misleading statements about a company, or other situations having to do with investments, you can alert the SEC. To do so, visit sec.gov/tcr, click Submit a Tip, and follow the instructions from there. AARP FraudWatch Network Helpline This toll-free service is available to help anyone who has been the victim of fraud. The service suggests that you report a scam or fraud if you get a suspicious call, text, or email requesting personal information, instructing you to buy a gift card, or promising a prize or gift, among other situations. The number to call is 877-908-3360. If applicable, also consider reaching out to your financial institution, credit bureau, or local law enforcement. Financial Abuse is Emotional Abuse While elder financial abuse is, by definition, a financial matter, going through it can take a mental and emotional toll on victims, who may experience one or more of the following symptoms: • Fear. If you have been taken advantage of, you may feel afraid that it could happen again and feel generally unsafe. You may lose confidence and view yourself as someone who is easy to trick. • Sadness. A sense of loss and even grief in such situations is common and understandable. You may have lost a sense of security, the ability to trust, independence, or even a person along with the financial loss itself. • Shame. Fear and sadness can lead to shame if you become embarrassed by the emotions or by the event itself. To get past these challenges, tell a trusted person in your life what’s on your mind, or seek out professional help.
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