Reporting elder financial scams is important and can protect both the victim and others who may also be targeted. The exact steps depend on your country, but here is a clear, general guide. If you tell me your country or state, I can give you the exact reporting links and phone numbers.
✅ What To Do Immediately
- Make Sure the Elder Is Safe
- Talk to them calmly and gather details.
- Stop all communication with the scammer.
- Change passwords on bank, email, and important accounts.
- Gather Evidence
Collect:
- Screenshots of messages/emails
- Bank statements or suspicious transactions
- Phone numbers, email addresses, or websites used by the scammer
- Dates, amounts, and descriptions of what happened
This will help when reporting.
✅ Where to Report (General Guidance)
- Report to Local Police
Financial exploitation of elders is a crime.
Even if the money can’t be recovered, having an official report helps with:
- Insurance claims
- Bank disputes
- Preventing further harm
- Report to the Bank or Financial Institution
Tell the victim’s bank immediately:
- They may freeze the account
- Reverse transactions (if possible)
- Flag the account for suspicious activity
🌐 Country-Specific Organizations (Common Options)
If you’re in the United States
- Adult Protective Services (APS): Report elder abuse in your state.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ReportScam (online form).
- FBI – Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): For online scams.
- AARP Fraud Watch Network: Support and resources.
If you’re in the UK
- Action Fraud (UK’s fraud reporting center)
- Local Police (101)
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
- Age UK for advice and support
If you’re in Canada
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)
- Local Police
- Seniors Abuse Support Lines (province-specific)
If you’re in Australia
- ReportCyber (Australian Cyber Security Centre)
- Scamwatch (ACCC)
- Local Police
- State elder-abuse hotlines
If you’re in India
- National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in)
- Local Police Station
- Elder Helpline 14567 (Project Elderline)
- Bank fraud helpline 1930 if money was transferred
📞 Optional Step: Seek Professional Support
Elder scams can cause shame or stress. Organizations like elder helplines, social workers, or legal advisors can help keep them safe and emotionally supported.
