Protect Yourself Against Elder Financial Abuse

Older Americans lose over $3 billion each year as a result of financial scams and fraud, suffering an average loss of $34,200 according to U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. And Seniors are disproportionately targeted as victims of these crimes. We are here to help ensure it doesn’t happen to you!

Recognize These Common Scams

Protect Yourself:

• Be Suspicious of any call from a government agency asking for money or information. Government agencies don’t do that, scammers do.
• Don’t Trust Caller ID. Even if it might look like a real call, it can be faked.
• Never send money back to someone who sent you a check. Don’t purchase gift cards or send a wire transfer if someone tells you to pay them back this way, it’s a scam.
• Check with the real agency or company. Don’t use the phone number they give you. Look it up yourself, then call to find out if they are trying to reach you and why.
• Never give your Social Security number, account numbers or other personal financial information over the phone unless you initiated the call.

Suspect Financial Abuse?  Here is what to do:

• Speak with a trusted family or friend, or consult with an attorney, doctor or officer at National Capital Bank.
• File a report with the FTC, call 877-FTC-HELP (877.382.4357).
• Contact Adult Protective Services in your area or your local police. If you believe you have been the victim of financial abuse or if you notice any suspicious activity on your account, visit your local National Capital Bank branch or call us immediately at 202.546.8000.

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