My elderly parent was scammed — how do I help them recover?
Report to your bank and Adult Protective Services immediately, then help them through the financial dispute process. Emotional support matters as much as the financial steps.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Older adults are disproportionately targeted by scammers because they may have accumulated savings, own property, and in some cases may be experiencing cognitive changes that make them more vulnerable to manipulation. Helping a parent or other elder recover requires sensitivity — many victims feel shame and may initially deny or minimize the scam.
Start with the practical financial steps without making the victim feel at fault. Contact their bank's fraud department on their behalf (with their permission) to report unauthorized transactions and discuss what can be recovered. If the elder has power of attorney granted to you, you can act directly. Ask the bank to add verbal or written alerts for large transfers.
In the U.S., report to Adult Protective Services (APS) in your state. APS can investigate financial exploitation of elders and connect your family with local resources. The National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (run by the DOJ's Office for Victims of Crime) provides specialized support and referrals. Also file with the FTC and the elder's local police department.
Beyond finances, address the emotional impact. Victims of elder fraud often experience depression, anxiety, and loss of trust. Counseling services and local senior centers can provide support. If cognitive decline appears to be a factor, consult with a doctor — exploitation of a person with diminished capacity may constitute a crime even if they 'consented.'
Common red flags
- Parent makes unusual or large transfers to people they recently met
- New 'friend' or romantic interest is suddenly very prominent in their life
- Parent is secretive about phone calls or online activities
- Utility bills go unpaid despite sufficient funds
- Unexplained withdrawals from savings or retirement accounts
- Parent mentions owing money to the IRS or government as an emergency
What to do now
- Contact their bank's fraud department — ask about recent suspicious transactions
- Call the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11
- Report to your state Adult Protective Services agency
- File with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- File a local police report
- Discuss adding fraud alerts or monitoring to financial accounts
- Provide emotional support — never blame the victim
Frequently asked questions
Is elder financial fraud treated differently by law enforcement?
Yes — many states have specific elder fraud statutes with enhanced penalties. Federal law also provides extra protections for victims over 55. Financial exploitation of an elder with dementia or cognitive impairment can be prosecuted as financial elder abuse even when funds were 'voluntarily' transferred.
How do I protect my parent from being scammed again?
Set up account alerts for large transactions, consider requiring dual authorization for large transfers, and register their number on the National Do Not Call Registry. Have open, non-judgmental conversations about common scam tactics.