Texas Sees Surge in Fraud Losses as Advocates Push for New Protections

Evolving scams, rising losses, and a push for stronger protections in Texas.

By Mark Hollis, AARP Texas 

AUSTIN, Texas -- As financial scams become more sophisticated, Texas advocates are intensifying their focus on policy solutions ahead of the 2027 legislative session.

The Texas Elder Justice Coalition, a statewide network working to combat financial exploitation of older adults, plays a central role in that effort. For AARP Texas, participation provides critical insight into emerging threats.

“Fraud is evolving quickly, and our response has to keep pace,” said Stephanie Mace, associate state director at AARP Texas. “The coalition helps us stay connected to what’s happening on the ground and shape solutions that better protect older Texans.”

The urgency is growing. Fraud losses in Texas have surged in recent years, with older adults disproportionately affected. AARP Texas has responded by expanding community education and outreach, including free events and workshops outlined in its Texas Shred ’Em fraud prevention campaign, which brings shredding services and scam education directly to communities statewide. AARP Texas also hosts fraud prevention workshops, virtual presentations, and telephone town halls, while volunteers lead community presentations where audiences learn to recognize and avoid scams. In addition, said Rosalinda Martinez, AARP Texas’ senior director of community strategy: “Outreach extends into everyday settings, like community events and sports venues, where we engage residents with fraud awareness resources and tips.”

At the TEJC Summit in mid-June, advocates emphasized a clear trend: scams are becoming faster, more coordinated, and harder to detect. Technology is enabling real-time financial exploitation, while traditional schemes, such as impersonation and investment fraud, remain widespread.

“Today’s scams are more immediate and more targeted,” Mace said. “That makes prevention and enforcement much more challenging.”

Cryptocurrency kiosks, or so-called “crypto-ATMs,” and related technologies have emerged as a major concern. AARP research shows these machines are used in scams because transactions move quickly and are difficult to reverse.

“We’re seeing these machines show up more often in fraud cases, and the lack of consistent safeguards in Texas puts consumers at risk,” said Andrea Earl, associate state director at AARP Texas.

Some local governments are beginning to respond. In May, the San Antonio City Council unanimously approved an ordinance requiring cryptocurrency kiosks to display clear warning signs about common scams — an effort to give consumers a moment to pause before completing potentially irreversible transactions.

“This is a meaningful step to raise awareness and help prevent losses before they happen,” said Lisa A. Rodriguez, AARP Texas director. “It shows how targeted, commonsense protections can make a real difference for Texans.”

Rodriguez said action like this is important, and broader policy solutions are still needed. AARP has called for stronger protections nationwide, including licensing, transaction limits, and clearer warnings.

Looking ahead to the 2027 legislative session, Rodriguez said AARP Texas plans to prioritize stronger consumer protections for cryptocurrency kiosks. “Stronger safeguards are essential if we’re going to stay ahead of how these scams are evolving,” she said. 

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Texas Sees Surge in Fraud Losses as Advocates Push for New Protections 

National Caregiving Month: New Data on Alaska Caregivers

By Katherine Severin

New AARP caregiving data, Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States, estimates that one in five of adults in Alaska — approximately 125,000 people — are family caregivers, providing largely unpaid and unsupported care to older parents, spouses, and other loved ones. The data can be found here.

“Alaskans care for one another. When a loved one needs help, family members, friends, and neighbors step up,” said Katie Severin, spokesperson for AARP Alaska. “But too often, caregiving means risking big impacts to finances, health and employments. With this new data and ahead of the legislative session, AARP Alaska urges policymakers at every level to act now to help family caregivers get the support they need.”

Family caregivers in Alaska provide an estimated 88 million hours of care for older parents, spouses, and other loved ones each year. In 2021, care provided by unpaid family caregivers in Alaska was valued at $1.7 billion (data here). Caregiving responsibilities range from bathing and meal prep to managing medications, arranging transportation and handling medical tasks, with little or no training.

But the toll on family caregivers in the Census Bureau’s Pacific Division, including Alaska, is great— financially, physically, and emotionally.

• 
  80% of caregivers pay out of their own pockets to help meet their loved ones’ needs, averaging $7,200 each year, or 25% of their income.
• 49% of family caregivers report financial setbacks— taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.
• 60% of our state’s caregivers are also juggling full- or part-time jobs. Many must reduce work hours or leave the workforce entirely due to caregiving responsibilities, jeopardizing their own long-term financial security.

In the most recent legislative session, AARP Alaska, the Alaska Commission on Aging, and the AGENet senior services provider network secured a $2.5 million increase for senior community-based grants in the final passed budget. This funding stabilized senior centers, ensuring continued operations, including essential meals and services that help older adults maintain independence at home and reducing the burden on unpaid family caregivers.

AARP Alaska will continue to fight for commonsense solutions to save caregivers money and time and provide greater support:

· HB 173 Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, sponsored by Rep. Jimmie, authorizes Alaska to join the 32-state Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact to reduce provider licensing barriers and improve access to care. Occupational therapy is a critical support for people of all ages requiring assistance with activities of daily living. Occupational therapists can assess individual needs and provide therapy to help patients improve, relearn, or maintain their ability to perform daily tasks, which family caregivers frequently help with or are responsible for.

· SB103 CNA Training sponsored by Sen. Gray-Jackson increases the dementia care training requirement for certified nursing assistants, better equipping them to support family caregivers dealing with dementia or related disorders.

· SB190 Uniform Act: Guardianship/Conservatorship, sponsored by Sen. Kiehl, brings Alaska's guardianship and conservatorship laws in line with the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Other Protective Arrangements Act. This modernization enhances transparency and notice, refines court disclosures and reporting, and clearly defines the roles of family members, guardians ad litem, attorneys, and court visitors. Most significantly, SB190 adds a new “Other Protective Arrangements” section that empowers courts to craft orders that meet the specific needs of the respondent when considering a guardianship or conservatorship petition. This legislation will foster a legal framework that better supports family caregivers and the friends or family members they care for.

And at the federal level, AARP is working to save caregivers money through the Credit for Caring Act, a proposed federal tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, which would expand flexible spending and health savings account uses.

This National Family Caregivers Month, AARP Alaska encourages everyone to show support for caregivers and to join the growing movement of Americans raising their voices for change. Join AARP’s I Am A Caregiver movement and tell lawmakers it’s time to support those who care.

To access free caregiver tools and local resource guides, visit:

• AARP’s state-by-state Family Caregiver Resource Guides to help family caregivers access key programs, services, and agencies right in their community.
• AARP’s online Caregiving Hub with tools and information available in English and Spanish.
• AARP and United Way Worldwide’ s 211 program connects family caregivers to essential local services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline.
• AARP’s official caregiving Facebook group serves as a place for family caregivers nationwide to connect, share practical tips, offer support, and discuss their shared experiences.

*Due to limited data collection in Alaska, the prevalence estimate was modeled using Hierarchical Logit Modeling and detailed information about Alaska’s caregivers cannot be presented. The Census Bureau’s designation of the Pacific Division includes Alaska, California, Hawai’i, Oregon, and Washington. For full methodology, see Methodology Appendix here. 

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National Caregiving Month: New Data on Alaska Caregivers 

'Roadshow' to Help Idahoans Avoid Cybercriminals

By AARP Bulletin

Financial fraud has gone from criminals seeking “small money grabs” to “industrialized financial-crime machines” involving thousands of employees.

That’s the assessment of John Yaros, securities bureau chief for the Idaho Department of Finance, who wants Idahoans to understand that they might not be communicating with friends or potential romantic partners online. Sometimes, the people on the other end of the line are working for well-organized cybercrime outfits that work “all day, every day” to go after your life savings, he says.

Yaros and other financial experts will spread the word at the Senior Fraud and Financial Exploitation Prevention Roadshow, offering tips on how to avoid being targeted by cybercriminals.

AARP Idaho is a host of the roadshow, which has four stops:

• Idaho Falls Public Library on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 1–3 p.m.
• Twin Falls Public Library, Thursday, Sept. 25, 1–3 p.m.
• McCall Public Library,Wed-nesday, Oct. 8, 1–3 p.m.
• Coeur d’Alene Public Library, Friday, Oct. 10, 1–3 p.m.

Each event will have a reception with refreshments and prizes. Go to aarp.org/id to register.

The sessions will highlight red flags that can signal a potential scam — like a new online friend who cultivates a relationship, then nonchalantly mentions a cryptocurrency trading opportunity and creates a sense of urgency by saying there’s a limited window to score big.

These events will provide information on other exploitative methods criminals use, such as posing as a government official or a tech-support worker.

According to the FBI, Idaho consumers lodged more than 3,000 cybercrime complaints in 2024, with more than $63 million in losses. That’s up from more than 1,800 complaints in 2021, with $17.7 million in losses.

—Rita Beamish 

Source:
'Roadshow' to Help Idahoans Avoid Cybercriminals 

AARP Florida Joins U.S. Senate Committee in Miami-Dade to Combat Fraud Targeting Seniors

By Jessyca Sosa

The fight against scams and fraud targeting older Americans took center stage in Miami-Dade County this week, as Jeff Johnson, State Director for AARP Florida, testified before the Senator Rick Scott and the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging during a field hearing focused on protecting seniors from financial exploitation.

Hosted in partnership with the Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office, the hearing brought together local, state, and federal leaders to address what has become a multi-billion-dollar national crisis. Fraud against Americans over 60 resulted in $4.8 billion in reported losses in 2024 and experts believe the true figure is far higher due to widespread underreporting.

Florida, home to more than 4 million seniors, has become both a retirement haven and a hotspot for scams. In 2024 alone, Floridians reported more than $1 billion lost to fraud, with nearly $400 million stolen from residents aged 60 and older.

“Fraud in America is at crisis levels,” Johnson told the committee, underscoring that criminals are increasingly sophisticated, often operating as part of transnational networks using stolen data, AI technology, and cryptocurrency to siphon money from local communities. “These are retirement savings—money meant for hobbies, travel, and grandchildren—being stolen and sent overseas to criminal enterprises,” he said.

Johnson shared harrowing stories, including that of Edward, a Florida man in his sixties who lost more than $400,000, the proceeds from selling his home, after cybercriminals drained his bank account. Instead of securing new housing, Edward suddenly faced the threat of homelessness.

AARP Florida has long prioritized fraud prevention and victim support through initiatives like the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline, public education campaigns, and advocacy for policies that strengthen law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute perpetrators. Johnson emphasized that combating fraud is not only a matter of consumer protection but also of changing the narrative, shifting blame from victims to the criminals themselves.

The hearing also spotlighted new legislative efforts, including the STOP Scammers Act, which would give the Treasury Department authority to label scam networks as “Foreign Financial Threat Organizations” and freeze their assets, and the GUARD Act, designed to support investigations into scams targeting retirees.

For Johnson and AARP Florida, the mission is clear: empower communities, remove the stigma of reporting fraud, and push for strong, coordinated action at every level of government. As scams become more sophisticated, they say, the response must be equally aggressive—because no one, regardless of age or income, is immune. 

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AARP Florida Joins U.S. Senate Committee in Miami-Dade to Combat Fraud Targeting Seniors 

Find out why AARP wants stronger elder fraud protection

By Jordan Vallone

With thousands of older New Yorkers losing more than $200 million annually to scams, AARP New York is urging legislative leaders to join Gov. Kathy Hochul in including consumer protections in the final state budget to combat elder financial fraud.

A coalition — including the chairs of the state Legislature’s Aging Committees, other lawmakers, the state police superintendent and a credit union industry security expert — highlighted the growing crisis during a news conference Monday at the state Capitol.

More than 4,300 New Yorkers age 60 and older lost a total of $203.4 million in 2023, the fourth highest total of any state, according to an FBI report. That amounts to roughly $557,000 per day — or $23,200 per hour — lost to financial exploitation. The average victim lost $47,000.

“These numbers are appalling, and they’re made worse by the fact that so many of the victims are people who worked their whole lives to put aside funds for retirement, only to see much of it—or all of it—stolen through a financial scam,” AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel said.

Finkel called on Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie to include fraud prevention measures in the budget to help financial institutions recognize and prevent scams targeting older adults.

“Where are financial institutions in helping to stop this crime? The big banks cannot sit idle on the sidelines,” Finkel said. “They need to work with the governor, Legislature and AARP to make sure their own customers have the protections they need.”

Hochul’s executive budget includes a provision to train bank tellers and other financial institution employees to recognize signs of financial exploitation. The measure would allow employees to place a hold on suspicious transactions and refer cases to law enforcement for investigation.

One of the most common scams targeting older adults is the “grandparent scam,” in which criminals pose as a relative — often a grandchild — and claim to need emergency financial help. Victims frequently withdraw cash to assist their “relative,” only to later realize they were deceived. Since scammers often request payment in cash, gift cards or wire transfers, victims have little chance of recovering their money.

State Sen. Cordell Cleare, chair of the Senate Aging Committee, praised AARP’s advocacy on the issue. “It is despicable that our beloved older New Yorkers would be targeted in this way,” Cleare said. “Every proactive solution must be on the table, including legislation I already passed this year establishing the Interagency Elder Justice Task Force.”

Assemblymember Gabriella Romero echoed the call for stronger safeguards.

“Elder fraud and financial abuse are a heartbreaking but all-too-common reality,” Romero said. “New Yorkers are losing hundreds of millions of dollars to these scams — often the retirement savings they worked their whole lives to earn.”

New York State Police Superintendent Steven James said scams targeting older residents are becoming more sophisticated, making it difficult for law enforcement to intervene before money is lost.

“With this legislation, the financial sector will have the authority to stop or delay payments when fraud is suspected,” James said. “This will prevent seniors from being stripped of their savings and give law enforcement a better chance of arresting the suspects before they escape with the stolen money.”

State Chief Cyber Officer Colin Ahern said financial exploitation of older adults has reached “alarming levels,” with cyber fraud losses rising rapidly.

“The rise in these crimes underscores the urgent need to pass the legislation proposed by Gov. Hochul,” Ahern said. “It will enable financial institutions to take action to prevent consumer losses and ensure law enforcement can investigate these crimes.”

For updates, follow AARP New York on X, formerly Twitter: @AARPNY, Facebook: AARP New York, and LinkedIn: AARP New York.

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Find out why AARP wants stronger elder fraud protection

The Successes and Challenges of Navigating Company Websites to Report Fraud

By Alicia R. Williams, AARP Research 

Imposter scams are on the rise, with criminals posing as representatives of businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits to steal personal information and money.  According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), business and government imposter scams were the most reported form of imposter scams in 2023, resulting in over $1.1 billion in losses.

This research report reveals the following:

• Over the past three years, approximately one in eight adults (around 40 million individuals) have attempted to report an imposter scam they experienced to the impersonated company via its website.
• Banks and credit unions were the most contacted (44 percent), followed by online retail stores (29 percent).
• More than half (55 percent) of adults found it easy to navigate to the fraud reporting section on the company website to report their experience of imposter fraud. However, about a third faced difficulties, and 10 percent were unable to find the reporting location at all.
• A majority (58 percent) successfully reported their fraud experience on the website, with most (56 percent) not needing to log in. As a result, 80 percent felt very or moderately satisfied with their website experience.
  

The report highlights several important considerations for businesses to improve their fraud reporting mechanisms:

• User-Friendly Design: Websites should be easy to navigate with clear instructions on how to report fraud.
• Accessible Reporting Tools: Businesses should provide dedicated forms, hotlines, and prominently displayed email addresses for fraud reporting.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to regulations like the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data and detecting suspicious activities.
• Customer Education: Informing customers about common fraud schemes and how to protect themselves through FAQs, tutorials, and alerts about recent fraud trends is beneficial.

Methodology

This national omnibus survey was conducted from July 25, 2024, through July 29, 2024, among a sample of n=1,102 adults age 18-plus, using NORC’s AmeriSpeak probability-based sample of pre-recruited panel participants. The data are weighted to the latest Current Population Survey (CPS) benchmarks developed by the U.S. Census Bureau and are balanced by gender, age, education, race/ethnicity, and region.

For more information, please contact Alicia R. Williams at arwilliams@aarp.org. For media inquiries, contact External Relations at media@aarp.org.

The search metadata was created with the assistance of Copilot and has been reviewed for accuracy and appropriateness.

Suggested citation:

Williams, Alicia R. Navigating Company Websites to Report Fraud. Washington, DC: AARP Research, March 2025. https://doi.org/10.26419/res.00878.001

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The Successes and Challenges of Navigating Company Websites to Report Fraud

AARP Recognizes 193 Financial Organizations for Their Role in Fighting Financial Exploitation

WASHINGTON—Today, AARP announced that 193 banks, credit unions and financial advisory firms nationwide have earned the 2025 BankSafe Trained Seal in recognition of the steps they’ve taken to curb financial exploitation of older adults. This represents a 15% increase in the number of seal recipients since 2024. A list of the financial organizations that received the 2025 BankSafe Trained Seal can be found here.

A June 2023 AARP BankSafe report found that at least $28.3 billion a year is stolen from adults over the age of 60 in the U.S. This report underscores the importance of empowering financial organizations and their employees to recognize and act against financial exploitation.

“The tremendous growth in the number of financial organizations using AARP BankSafe shows just how valuable the initiative is to frontline workers across the nation,” said Jilenne Gunther, National Director of AARP’s BankSafe Initiative. “Not only do we have financial organizations coming back year after year to provide their staff with the BankSafe training, but more institutions continue to learn of its value. Our impact is growing exponentially as we provide more workers with the tools, skills and confidence to help prevent financial exploitation.”

AARP BankSafe includes a free online platform developed in collaboration with more than 2,000 industry professionals and used by nearly 250,000 frontline professionals to learn how to spot and stop financial exploitation.

Based on a Virginia Tech study, it is estimated that BankSafe-trained employees save customers 16 times more than frontline workers who don’t complete the training. Saving a record $137 million in 2024 – a 53% increase in dollars saved over the previous year – BankSafe has totaled more than $428 million in savings since its inception.

To earn the esteemed seal, organizations must ensure at least 80% of their frontline staff complete AARP's comprehensive BankSafe training annually, alongside actively pursuing policies to address suspected financial exploitation. Eligibility for the seal also requires a positive standing in Better Business Bureau ratings and adherence to specific legal and regulatory standards.

The BankSafe Trained Seal is not a product or service endorsement but indicates that a financial institution’s frontline employees have been substantially trained in financial exploitation prevention. Training courses for each respective industry are available at no cost to banks, credit unions and financial advisors in the United States.

More information about AARP’s BankSafe trainings and resources, including how to sign up for the training, can be found at aarp.org/banksafe.

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AARP Recognizes 193 Financial Organizations for Their Role in Fighting Financial Exploitation

AARP Florida urges lawmakers to support SB 64 – electronic monitoring devices in long-term care facilities

Electronic monitoring devices would not only deter potential abuse but also protect caregivers from false accusations.

Protecting the rights and safety of our most vulnerable citizens — our seniors and individuals with disabilities residing in nursing homes and assisted living facilities — should be a priority for all of us. That’s why AARP Florida strongly supports legislation allowing residents to install electronic monitoring devices in their rooms at their own expense.

Far too often, concerns about abuse, neglect or mistreatment arise in long-term care settings, yet without clear evidence, families are left in the dark, and law enforcement faces challenges in proving or disproving allegations. A simple, cost-effective solution is to give residents the right to install electronic monitoring devices, providing peace of mind for families and a critical tool for law enforcement to investigate incidents fairly and accurately.

Electronic monitoring devices would not only deter potential abuse but also protect caregivers from false accusations. Transparency benefits everyone. If a resident or their family wants this added layer of security, they should have the right to make that decision.

This legislation concerns accountability, safety, and ensuring that every person in long-term care is treated with dignity and respect. AARP Florida urges lawmakers to support this common-sense measure, which prioritizes resident well-being while strengthening protections for both residents and staff.

Zayne Smith is the senior director of Advocacy for AARP Florida, overseeing advocacy efforts across various issues. She has represented AARP Florida in several coalitions and task forces, including the Working Interdisciplinary Network of Guardianship Stakeholders and the Florida Don’t Text & Drive Coalition. The News Service of Florida honored her with the 2023 Above & Beyond Award, and she is a Leadership Florida Cornerstone Class 42 member.

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AARP Florida urges lawmakers to support SB 64 – electronic monitoring devices in long-term care facilities

New law and local resources help protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation

According to AARP, financial exploitation costs older Americans $28.3 billion every year.

Source:
New law and local resources help protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation

AARP Alabama urges community response to elderly abuse after Elkmont man allegedly beats parents

By Noah Cowell

ELKMONT, Ala. (WAFF) - AARP Alabama asks the local community to help prevent elder abuse after a man brutally assaulted his parents in Elkmont.

Charlie Cain Jr., 55, was charged with two counts of elder abuse after allegedly beating his parents in Elkmont last Tuesday.

Other charges include domestic violence and violating his parents' protection order they filed in May after claiming he threatened them.

Witnesses say Cain — who has a history of drug problems — became irritated on Tuesday when his parents would not take him to a local pharmacy.

Cain then yanked his mother to the ground and broke her jaw, while also striking his father in the face.

The good Samaritan who reported the assault says she never expected Cain to be capable of an attack this severe. She says she’s seen his parents repeatedly give their son more chances after his other times in prison, but he just continues to hurt them.

According to court records, Cain was charged with domestic violence and harassment two years ago after beating his parents across the face with his cell phone.

AARP works to raise awareness of these types of elder abuse cases and how to stop them. Jamie Harding of AARP Alabama urges everyone to keep an eye on their older friends and neighbors.

“These are some of our most vulnerable friends and neighbors and relatives, and we all have a responsibility to help protect them as much as possible,” Harding said.

She says signs of abuse can range from victims having an unkempt or abnormally messy appearance to having bruises.

Harding also says what Cain is accused of doing is horrifying, adding elder abuse often goes unreported because seniors are often hurt by close family members.

“Understand that that person is probably not going to admit that their family member is abusing them, so that’s why somebody else has to step in and help them,” Harding said. “No one wants to throw their family member into jail.” 

Harding also urges witnesses of elder abuse to reach out to the Department of Human Resources on their adult abuse and exploitation hotline.

The good Samaritan hopes Cain doesn‘t get out of jail anytime soon so his parents can stay out of harm’s way.

The Limestone County Sheriff‘s Office currently has no updates regarding Cain’s case.

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AARP Alabama urges community response to elderly abuse after Elkmont man allegedly beats parents

More Data is Needed to Better Address the Financial Exploitation of Older Adults

By Karen Shakira Kali

Elder financial exploitation, the most common form of elder abuse, broadly refers to the illegal use of an older person’s money, property, or other financial resource for personal benefit, profit, or gain. The perpetrator can be a known, trusted person such as a caregiver, or they may be a stranger or imposter. Elder abuse affects at least 10% of older adults each year in the United States.

While financial exploitation can occur in any community, gaps in data exist in understanding the impact on older adults within certain communities that historically have been discriminated against. Without this data, addressing financial exploitation in all communities will continue to be a challenge.

Financial exploitation in the U.S. is a growing problem

Financial exploitation continues to grow. AARP research places annual losses for older adults over 60 at a conservative $28.3 billion, of which $20.3 billion is a result of known perpetrators (e.g. family, friends, or caregivers). According to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s (FinCEN) most recent analysis of reported suspicious activity, perpetrators of financial exploitation stole or attempted to steal more than $27 billion from older adults age 60+ in the 12-month period ending in June 2023. FinCEN’s new annual projection is higher than the entire six-year period from 2013-2019 when FinCEN estimated the total risk of losses or actual losses to be $21.8 billion.

Underreporting is likely, making understanding the full scope of the problem difficult. Many instances of elder abuse, which includes financial exploitation, go unreported each year. Perhaps the most prevalently cited study attempting to estimate the impact suggests that one in 23.5 cases go unreported annually.

There are many reasons cases go unreported. Older adults may fear retaliation or losing their independence, or they may have a close attachment to the perpetrator (e.g., a trusted caregiver, such as a family member). Some may struggle with the steps required to report the crime. Additionally, for some in communities with a history of discrimination, fear or distrust of authority, including law enforcement, and fear of further discrimination contribute to a possible unwillingness to come forward.

Data on diverse populations is needed

Beyond the general limitations in reporting, even less is known about the impact of financial exploitation among older adults of various diverse populations. There is a marked lack of research quantifying findings by racial and ethnic group and even fewer research initiatives targeting LGBTQ+ populations, populations with limited English proficiency, and low-income populations.

Filling some of the data gaps on financial exploitation are population-based surveys on the issue – yet very few current studies include race, ethnic identities, or other identities. This limited amount of available research suggests the need for more. One issue is that research on racial differences and scam victimization tends to be inconsistent. Some studies find Black older adults are more likely to experience financial exploitation than older white adults, yet similar studies have yet to corroborate this finding. When researchers in 2010 found that African Americans in Pennsylvania were as much as five times more at risk for financial exploitation, they called for a larger national study. But despite the apparent disparity, little research has been conducted since.

Interventions and prevention strategies depend on better data

Data drives solutions. The lack of information on diverse populations and financial exploitation is a barrier to addressing the issue across all communities. A greater focus on race, ethnicity, LGBTQ+ identity, and other demographic data, particularly in population-based surveys, would not only provide a clearer understanding of financial exploitation but also encourage policymakers and others to tailor prevention and intervention strategies beyond a one-size-fits-all approach to combatting financial exploitation.

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More Data is Needed to Better Address the Financial Exploitation of Older Adults

AARP Virginia warns of elder financial exploitation

By Citizen Staff

In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, the AARP of Virginia is urging seniors and their caregivers to be aware of potential scams and elder financial exploitation.

The multi-billion-dollar problem of elder financial exploitation and reminds the public that it’s a crime that can have devastating consequences for individuals and families.

According to the AARP, elder financial exploitation – generally involving a known person who is deceiving and manipulating an older adult to steal from them – is a multi-billion dollar, and often unreported, crime.

AARP Virginia officials advise that one way to prevent elder financial exploitation is to encourage a loved one to designate someone they trust to help them with financial decisions. The federal government’s Eldercare Locator can help seniors find free or low-cost legal assistance if they need it.

AARP officials also are warning that seniors be wary of anyone who discourages contact with family and friends, exerts pressure on financial decisions, or asks for large sums of money. Financial exploitation is a crime and should be reported to Henrico Police at (804) 501-5000 or by calling 911 if the target is in immediate danger.

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AARP Virginia warns of elder financial exploitation

Guardianship Reform in The Virgin Islands

Guardianship is a vital legal mechanism designed to safeguard vulnerable adults who are unable to manage their own affairs due to various reasons. Yet, its implementation often poses challenges, raising concerns about the protection of individual rights and preventing potential abuse. The Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act (UGCOPAA) emerges as a beacon of reform, addressing these complexities and ensuring a balanced approach that prioritizes both protection and empowerment.

AARP VI is urging our elected officials to pass the Uniform Guardianship Act. The hearing for the Guardianship Reform Bill presented by AARP is set for hearing on May 24^th in the Virgin Islands Legislature. This bill will protect and empower Virgin Islanders to have greater agency in their individual rights.

Traditionally, guardianships have been characterized by their dual nature—intended to protect while also potentially restricting personal freedoms. The recent spotlight on high-profile cases like that of Britney Spears has underscored the need for comprehensive reform within the guardianship system. UGCOPAA acknowledges this necessity by emphasizing the rights of individuals under guardianship, striving to make it a last resort rather than a default option.

One of the significant advancements brought by UGCOPAA is its focus on alternatives to full guardianship. By encouraging exploration of less restrictive options, the Act aims to empower individuals and preserve their autonomy whenever possible. This approach respects the dignity of those under guardianship and fosters better outcomes while reducing the burden on the judicial system in the long run.

Moreover, UGCOPAA introduces stringent requirements for guardians, ensuring they understand their responsibilities and act in the best interests of those under their care. From enhanced notice to third parties to detailed reporting and decision-making standards, the Act strengthens oversight and accountability within the guardianship process.

Crucially, UGCOPAA embraces modern principles, eliminates outdated terminology, and recognizes the evolving dynamics of familial and support structures. By expanding the pool of potential guardians beyond traditional family ties, the Act acknowledges the concept of "chosen family" and promotes inclusivity in decision-making processes.

Furthermore, UGCOPAA empowers courts to tailor orders to meet the unique needs of vulnerable individuals, providing flexibility beyond conventional guardianship arrangements. This adaptability allows for more nuanced approaches that consider the specific circumstances of each case, promoting greater effectiveness and fairness.

In essence, UGCOPAA represents a significant step forward in guardianship reform, striving to strike a delicate balance between protection and autonomy. By prioritizing the rights of individuals under guardianship, enhancing oversight mechanisms, and embracing modern principles, the Act seeks to ensure a more equitable and respectful guardianship system for all involved.

As communities continue to grapple with the complexities of caregiving and guardianship, understanding and supporting initiatives like UGCOPAA are crucial steps toward fostering a more just and compassionate community here in the Virgin Islands.

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Guardianship Reform in The Virgin Islands

Adults Facing Guardianship Need Adequate Legal Representation, AARP Tells Congress

By Natalie Missakian

AndreyPopov/Getty Images/iStockphoto

En español | AARP is backing legislation that would help states train and recruit law students to represent adults facing guardianship proceedings in court.

More than 1.3 million adults in the U.S. are living under court-ordered guardianship because they are unable to manage their own affairs. These adults may lose the ability to make decisions about where to live, how to spend their money or how to treat an illness. They may even lose their right to get married or vote.

Because so much is at stake, AARP is endorsing the Guardianship Grant Flexibility Act, sponsored by U.S. Sens. Mike Braun (R-Indiana) and Bob Casey (D-Pennsylvania). The legislation would allow states to use federal grants for programs to train and recruit law students to help these adults, either by providing legal representation or becoming court-appointed guardians ad litem, representing their best interests. The programs would be administered through law clinics supervised by a licensed attorney, according to the bill’s sponsors.

“Unfortunately, many people subject to guardianship proceedings cannot afford to hire attorneys to represent them, and states do not have adequate funding to provide representation,” Bill Sweeney, AARP senior vice president for government affairs, wrote in a letter endorsing the legislation. “These individuals are too often left without a voice in the system, or an advocate to protect their rights.”

Often, guardians are family members or friends, but public guardians are appointed when no one else is willing to serve in the role. While many guardians do their job well, over the years, cases of abuse, mismanagement and conflicts of interest have also made headlines around the country.

That’s why AARP has long called for stronger oversight of these arrangements, and the use of less restrictive alternatives, such as power of attorney agreements, when possible. We’ve successfully pushed to reform state guardianship systems in Virginia, Florida, Alabama and other states.

Full Article & Source:
Adults Facing Guardianship Need Adequate Legal Representation, AARP Tells Congress

FBI Internet Crime Report Shows Jump in Hawai`i Losses

 Hawai`i residents and businesses reported losing $51.7 million to internet crimes in 2023, a huge 45 percent increase over the $35.8 million reported in 2022. The number of Hawai`i complaints reported also increased from 1,703 in 2022 to 1,954 last year, a 15 percent increase.

The internet crime losses and complaints in Hawai`i are growing faster than the national average, according to the annual FBI Internet Crime Report, released earlier this month. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center said it received over 880,000 complaints last year with potential losses exceeding $12.5 billion nationally. That’s about a 10 percent increase in complaints from 2022 and a 22 percent increase in losses.

“The actual amount of fraud losses to internet crimes is likely much higher because many people and businesses don’t report crimes to authorities,” said AARP Hawai`i State Director Keali`i Lopez. “That’s why AARP Hawai`i tries to educate kupuna and their loved ones about fraud prevention through the AARP Fraud Watch Network (aarp.org/fraudwatch).”

The top three crime types most frequently reported by victims were phishing/spoofing, personal data breach, and non-payment/non-delivery. The new FBI report says top three crime types reported by victims of fraud loss are investment scams, business email compromise (BEC), and tech support scams. Phishing and spoofing schemes had over 298,000 complaints reported in 2023. Personal data breaches had over 55,000 complaints reported, and non-payment/non-delivery scams had 50,000 complaints.

The top three crime types reported by victims of fraud loss were investment scams, business email compromise (BEC), and tech support scams.

“Education can help protect ourselves, our workplaces and loved ones from fraud,” said Paul Greenwood, a former elder abuse prosecutor and AARP fraud speaker, who is coming to Hawai`i for a series of Fight Fraud Together seminars on Kauai, Hawai`i Island, Oahu and Maui April 22^nd through April 26. The seminars will look at some of Hawai`i’s top frauds and strategies for spotting and avoiding fraud and financial exploitation.

Register for the free seminars and an April 5 webinar at 10:30 a.m. with Amy Nofziger, AARP Fraud Watch Network’s director of victim support, at events.aarp.org/hifraud24 or go to aarp.org/local or the AARP Hawai`i Facebook page to see all the events AARP is offering.

“At the Fraud Watch Network, we’re seeing an increase in cryptocurrency scams and online commerce scams targeting both sellers and victims,” Nofziger said. “Our Anatomy of a Scam webinar will take an in-depth look at internet and social media marketplace scams.”

Nationally, investment fraud was the biggest source of lost money, rising to $4.57 billion in 2023, a 38% increase from 2022. Within these numbers, crypto-investment fraud losses rose to $3.94 billion in 2023, a 53% increase from 2022. Business email complaints amounted to $2.9 billion in reported losses, and tech support scams were the third highest losses with over $924 million reported stolen.

Victims 30 to 49 years old were the most likely group to report losses from investment fraud, while those over 60 accounted for well over half of losses to tech support scams.

Ransomware continued to be damaging and impactful in 2023. IC3 received over 2,800 ransomware complaints and losses rose to $59.6 million, a 74% increase from last year. The critical infrastructure most reported as impacted by ransomware were health care and public health, critical manufacturing, and government facilities.

In a news release, the FBI said the Internet Crime Complaint Center gives the public a direct way to report cyber threats, complex financial crimes and other online threats. The FBI encourages victims to report suspected internet crimes at ic3.gov.

The Internet Crime Complaint Center was established in May 2000 to receive complaints of online-related crimes. Since its inception, IC3 has received over eight million complaints.

The FBI recommends that the public frequently review consumer and industry alerts published by the Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Full Article & Source:
FBI Internet Crime Report Shows Jump in Hawai`i Losses

AARP Recognizes 167 Financial Organizations for Their Role in Fighting Financial Exploitation

WASHINGTON—Today, AARP announced the 167 banks, credit unions and financial advisory firms that earned the BankSafe Trained Seal in recognition of the steps they’ve taken to curb financial exploitation.

This represents an almost 25% increase in the number of seal recipients since last year. Notably, more than one-third of this year’s recipients have earned the seal at least three times in the last five years. A list of the financial organizations that qualified for the 2024 BankSafe Trained Seal can be found here.

“These financial organizations continue to take meaningful steps to ensure their staff have the tools, skills and confidence to spot and stop financial exploitation before money ever leaves an account,” said Jilenne Gunther, National Director of AARP’s BankSafe Initiative. “Many of these organizations have earned the Trained Seal for three or four consecutive years.”

Based on a Virginia Tech study, it is estimated that BankSafe-trained employees have helped prevent nearly $300 million from being stolen from the accounts of older adults since 2019. These BankSafe-trained employees play a crucial role in protecting over 230 million customers across the U.S.

To earn the esteemed seal, organizations must ensure over 80% of their frontline staff complete AARP’s comprehensive BankSafe training, alongside actively pursuing policies to address suspected financial exploitation. Eligibility for the seal also requires a positive standing in Better Business Bureau ratings and adherence to specific legal and regulatory standards.

A June 2023 AARP report found that at least $28.3 billion a year is stolen from adults over the age of 60 in the U.S. This report underscores the importance of empowering financial organizations and their employees to recognize and act against financial exploitation.

The BankSafe Trained Seal is not a product or service endorsement but indicates that a financial institution’s frontline employees have been substantially trained in financial exploitation prevention. Training courses for each respective industry are available at no cost to banks, credit unions and financial advisors in the United States.

More information about AARP’s BankSafe trainings and resources, including how to sign up for the training, can be found at aarp.org/banksafe.

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Source:
AARP Recognizes 167 Financial Organizations for Their Role in Fighting Financial Exploitation

Problems With Oversight, Staffing Contribute to Low Quality Ranking of MO Nursing Homes

by Grace Kenyon

While reading nursing home complaint reports, the last descriptor that tends to come to mind is “home.”

Instead, one resident of a St. Louis skilled nursing facility uses some other words.

“Depressing.”
“Prison.”

The resident wished to remain anonymous but can be vouched for by St. Louis area senior advocates. She described a recent night where, having just returned from the hospital, she was unable to sleep because a resident in a nearby room was screaming for water all night.

She says the care has gotten better since she arrived last year, but that she prefers to rely on herself rather than ask the staff for help. They tend to act annoyed, roll their eyes, or talk down to the other residents, she says. Several times a week, she says she doesn’t get pain medications to manage her chronic illness symptoms.

Sometimes, it feels like “a battle trying to get them to help you.”

This story is far from unique. Nursing homes across the state have experienced chronic understaffing and can struggle to provide quality care. However, the mechanism that states use to closely monitor and penalize underperforming facilities only allows a few facilities to be scrutinized at a time, leaving other, equally poor facilities operating without adequate inspection.

This, combined with a backlog in regular health inspections, or surveys, has created an environment that allows poor care quality, and sometimes abuse, to continue for years with few consequences.

In a 2023 AARP report, Missouri was ranked 48th in the country for nursing home quality.

Full Article and Source:
Problems With Oversight,Staffing Contribute to Low Quality Ranking of MO Nursing Homes

AARP Ohio Helps Secure State Funding to Combat Elder Abuse

By Natalie Missakian

En español | Ohio communities will soon get additional state funding to investigate reports of elder abuse, thanks in part to advocacy from AARP Ohio.

AARP successfully pushed lawmakers to include an additional $4.9 million per year for its Adult Protective Services program in the state’s recently approved two-year budget. The program handles complaints of abuse against vulnerable adults, including people 60 and older.

Roughly 1 in 10 Americans 60 and older have experienced some form of elder abuse, which can include physical, emotional and financial abuse, according to the National Council on Aging. Seniors who lack social connections or who have dementia are especially vulnerable.

The budgetary increase complements new state laws that protect older Ohioans from telecommunications fraud and create penalties when mandatory reporters fail to report evidence of elder abuse.

“For far too long, local communities have not had the resources they need to investigate when older Ohioans are suspected victims of abuse,” said Kalitha Williams, AARP Ohio outreach and advocacy manager. “This annual increase will help to ensure there are resources in place to enforce important policy safeguards.”

The additional funding is one of several wins for AARP Ohio in the 2024-2025 budget, and another example of how AARP is fighting in states around the country for funding to benefit older adults. In Indiana, we helped safeguard funding for adult guardianship programs. We also successfully advocated for an additional $1 million to better investigate nursing home concerns and complaints in Illinois.

Keep up with AARP Ohio’s advocacy work. And learn how to spot and report elder financial exploitation — the most common form of elder abuse — through the AARP Fraud Watch Network.

Full Article & Source:
AARP Ohio Helps Secure State Funding to Combat Elder Abuse

AARP Indiana Helps Preserve Protections for Adults Under Guardianship

By Natalie Missakian

En español | We applaud Indiana lawmakers for listening to our call to safeguard funding for adult guardianship programs in the state’s recently approved two-year budget.

“During a budget session, it’s a constant battle over where the state’s funding should be directed,” said AARP Indiana Legislative Director Ambre Marr. “While guardianship may only impact a small number of Hoosiers, these programs are there for some of our state’s most vulnerable citizens and it’s important that the funding was protected.”

AARP Indiana met with lawmakers during the session to stress the importance of protecting older adults who are unable to manage their own affairs and must rely on guardians to make decisions about their welfare.

Thanks in part to our advocacy, lawmakers agreed to preserve nearly $2 million in funding, saving a program that pairs volunteer advocates with seniors under court-appointed guardianship as well as a registry that tracks guardianship cases statewide, among other services.

AARP has long advocated for updated guardianship laws and safeguards to reduce the potential for abuse and conflicts of interest with these arrangements, and we’ve helped deliver reforms in states across the country. In Virginia and Florida, we helped pass laws to strengthen court oversight, and we helped pass a law in Alabama this year offering a less restrictive alternative.

Full Article & Source:
AARP Indiana Helps Preserve Protections for Adults Under Guardianship

Wyoming AARP Advises Seniors Of Scams Involving A.I. Voice Cloning

Scammers are adept at manipulating the latest technological advances to commit their crimes.

These days it’s happening in the world of artificial intelligence – commonly known as A.I.

A.I. voice cloning is already bringing a new twist to scams that have been around forever.

For instance, the grandparent scam calls now can feature the actual voice of the loved one the criminal is impersonating.

These tactics are startling, but the ways we protect ourselves haven’t changed.

The first sign of any fraud attempt is when an unexpected contact causes an immediate emotional reaction – often fear, panic, or excitement.

Maybe training our brains to disengage when we feel that emotional surge could be the best way to disrupt the criminal act.

Otherwise, stay updated on the latest fraud tactics by Clicking here.

Know that anytime you are asked to address some urgent financial matter with a gift card, cryptocurrency or peer-to-peer payment app, it’s a scam.

More than 369,000 incidents of financial abuse targeting older adults are reported to authorities in the U.S. each year, causing an estimated $4.8 billion in losses.

And those numbers likely understate the problem considerably.

However, as we approach World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, it’s good to remember that there are things we can do to stop elder financial exploitation.

Encourage your loved one to designate someone they trust to help them with financial decisions.

The federal government’s Eldercare Locator can help you find free or low-cost legal assistance.

Suggest they add a trusted contact for their financial institutions if they are unreachable or if questionable activity is detected.

A trusted contact is not able to make transactions, but the financial institution can disclose some account information to them. 

Also, watch out for someone — even someone you thought you or your loved one could trust — who discourages contact with family and friends, exerts pressure on financial decisions or asks for large sums of money. 

Most importantly, financial exploitation is a crime and should be reported to your local police or Sheriff or even to 911.

Be a fraud fighter!  If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Full Article & Source:
Wyoming AARP Advises Seniors Of Scams Involving A.I. Voice Cloning