Discovering that an elderly loved one has been targeted by a scam can be incredibly upsetting. These schemes often exploit trust and create lasting financial and emotional consequences.
Taking swift action is crucial to minimizing the damage. By understanding the right steps to take, you can provide meaningful support and help protect your loved one from further harm caused by scams
Protecting your loved one from scams
First, take immediate action. If personal or financial information has been compromised, time is critical. Help your loved ones contact their bank, credit card providers as well as other financial institutions to freeze accounts and stop any unauthorized transactions. Reviewing credit reports for suspicious activity is also essential, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze to further safeguard their identity.
Additionally, reporting the incident is an important step in both accountability and recovery. Depending on the situation, this may involve filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), your state attorney general’s office or local law enforcement. These agencies can provide support, investigate the scam and offer guidance on possible recovery options.
Being scammed can take a serious emotional toll. Many people, regardless of age or experience, feel shaken, embarrassed or angry after such an event. It’s important to offer support without judgment, let your loved one know they’re not alone and that scams can happen to anyone.
Encourage open conversation, one of the most effective ways to prevent future scams is through education. Supporting your loved one in staying informed about common scams and how to recognize red flags can reduce risk moving forward.
If you’re unsure how to proceed, consider seeking legal guidance. Having professional legal help on your side can make the process more manageable and help restore peace of mind.