On June 15, 2025, the FBI marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by warning Americans about the growing threat of elder fraud, a crime that targets seniors through investment scams, technical support fraud, romance scams, and money mule schemes.
Elder Fraud on the Rise
According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), elder fraud cases surged in 2024, with 147,127 complaints leading to $4.885 billion in losses—a 46% increase in complaints and a 43% rise in financial losses compared to 2023.
FBI’s Commitment to Protecting Seniors
Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division emphasized the devastating impact of these scams:
“Educating the American public, and specifically our seniors, about the devastating effects of elder fraud schemes is critical to protecting them and their hard-earned money.”
The FBI is working with local and federal partners to combat elder fraud and ensure seniors, caregivers, and families recognize warning signs.
Why Seniors Are Targeted
Criminals often view seniors as trusting, financially stable, and less likely to report fraud due to shame or unfamiliarity with reporting channels like IC3.gov.
How Seniors Can Protect Themselves
The FBI advises seniors to take precautionary steps to avoid fraud:
- Verify unknown contacts by searching online or checking the Better Business Bureau.
- Resist pressure to act quickly—scammers create urgency to manipulate victims.
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, and door-to-door offers.
- Never send money, checks, gift cards, or personal information to unverified sources.
- Secure financial accounts if fraud is suspected and monitor for suspicious activity.
Reporting Elder Fraud
If you or someone you know has been targeted, report fraud to:
- Your local FBI field office
- 1-800-CALL-FBI
- Online at tips.fbi.gov
- The Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov
For more details, visit the FBI’s official statement here.
