Evergreen Reporter

In observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea has joined with the Justice Department to condemn elder abuse and vowed to continue investigating and prosecuting those who exploit and harm older adults.

Each year, June 15th is recognized as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, providing an opportunity to raise awareness of the abuse, neglect, and fraud schemes committed against older Americans.

“Unfortunately, seniors are a frequent target for criminals,” U.S. Attorney O’Shea said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to prosecute those who prey on senior citizens in the Western District of Wisconsin.”

Each year, millions of seniors fall victim to some type of financial fraud or confidence scheme. Seniors are often targeted because they tend to be trusting and polite. They also usually have financial savings, own a home, and have good credit—all of which make them attractive to scammers.

Additionally, seniors may be less inclined to report fraud because they don’t know how or may be too ashamed of having been scammed. They might also be concerned that their relatives will lose confidence in their abilities to manage their own financial affairs. When an elderly victim does report a crime, they may be unable to supply detailed information to investigators.

U.S. Attorney O’Shea urged seniors to be aware of common scams so they can protect themselves. He also encouraged younger family members to discuss the increasing prevalence of these schemes with parents and grandparents.

Some common scams targeting older Americans include:

- Romance scam: Criminals pose as interested romantic partners on social media or dating websites to obtain money from the victim.

- Tech support scam: Criminals pose as technology support representatives and offer to fix non-existent computer issues.

- Grandparent scam: Criminals pose as a relative claiming immediate financial need.

- Governmental impersonation scam: Criminals pose as government employees threatening arrest or prosecution unless payment is made.

To prevent becoming a victim:

- Resist pressure for immediate action; consult trusted individuals.

- Be cautious of unsolicited communications.

- Never give money to online love interests.

- Avoid opening unrecognized emails or links.

- Be wary of requests for payments via wire transfer or prepaid cards.

- Research online advertisements before purchasing.

- Cease communication if you suspect a scammer.

- Notify authorities if asked to lie about fund withdrawals.

If you believe you or someone you know may have been a victim of elder fraud, contact local police or FBI field offices or submit a tip online at ic3.gov. The National Elder Fraud Hotline (1-833-FRAUD-11) is available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m Eastern Time.

Victims should also report fraud incidents promptly to their financial institutions.

For more information on various types of scams:

Romance scams: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-romance-scams

Tech support scams: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams

Grandparent scams: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2021/04/dont-open-your-door-grandparent-scams

Impersonation scams: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-government-impersonation-scam

For further details on enforcement actions and resources visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.