How To Help an Elderly Person Recover After a Scam
Compassionate, practical guidance for family or carers helping an older person who has been scammed, covering financial recovery, emotional support, and repeat-targeting prevention.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
First 10 minutes
- Stay calm and avoid any language that implies the victim was foolish or at fault
- Ask them to stop all contact with the person they have been speaking with
- Call their bank together using the number on their card and explain what has happened
- If they have a computer, do not turn it off if a remote-access session may still be active — disconnect internet first
- Note any amounts sent, who to, and by what method
First 24 hours
- Help them change passwords for email and banking accounts from a clean device
- Enable two-factor authentication where possible, using a method they can manage
- Report together to the FTC, Action Fraud, or the relevant national agency
Contact your bank or payment provider
- Ask the bank to add a note about potential ongoing fraud and flag future large or unusual transactions
- Discuss whether a trusted person being notified for large transactions is appropriate
- Ask whether any transfers can be recalled given the victim's circumstances
Evidence to preserve
- Collect any letters, texts, emails, or notes relating to the scammer
- Note the names, phone numbers, and accounts the victim dealt with
- Save records of any payments made, including bank statements
Secure your accounts and devices
- Change email and banking passwords to strong ones and write them down securely in the person's home
- Ask the bank about voluntary spending limits or branch-visit requirements for large transfers
- Set up call-blocking for numbers not in their contacts where possible
Report it
- Report to your national fraud/cybercrime service
- Report to the platform, bank, or provider involved
- Keep any reference numbers you're given
Elderly people are often targeted by scammers because they may be more trusting, less familiar with common fraud tactics, and more likely to be home to receive calls. Shame and embarrassment are barriers to reporting — many victims do not tell their families for days or weeks. Your most important role is to be non-judgmental and supportive.
Once the immediate situation is handled, the risk of repeat targeting is high. Scammers share victim lists, and a person who has paid once is likely to be contacted again — sometimes by a different scammer posing as a recovery service. Gently educating the person about these patterns, without alarm, is one of the most valuable things you can do.
Frequently asked questions
My elderly parent is still in contact with the scammer — how do I stop it?
Approach it gently. Sudden intervention can sometimes entrench resistance, especially in romance scams where the victim has an emotional attachment. Focus on concern for their safety rather than accusations. In serious cases, contact their GP or social services for guidance.
Who specialises in supporting elderly scam victims?
In the UK, Age UK and Citizens Advice provide specialist support. In the US, the National Elder Fraud Hotline (1-833-FRAUD-11) and AARP Fraud Watch Network are dedicated resources. Your local council or police may also have victim support services.