Elder Abuse and Fraud Impacts 2.4 Million Americans

Justice Department takes action to prosecute crimes, return funds

The U.S. Department of Justice released a report showing that 2.4 million Americans aged 60 and older were victims of fraud and abuse in 2022.

The Department says it prosecuted some 650 bad actors who were responsible for various scams that resulted in more than $1.5 billion in financial harm to consumers.

“The Justice Department is intensifying our efforts to fight the despicable crimes of elder fraud and abuse,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As reflected in this year’s report, the Department is aggressively pursuing perpetrators of elder fraud and abuse, supporting victims, and raising public awareness to prevent elder fraud and abuse before they occur.”

The Department said its work with law enforcement partners disrupted scams and prevented additional abuse and fraud.

“Working with our law enforcement partners, our agents and prosecutors have employed disruption strategies and obtained restitution and forfeiture orders to deter potential offenders, minimize losses, make victims financially whole, and prevent wrongdoers from profiting from their crimes," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco.

Lottery, romance, and tech support scams were among the most common used against older Americans.

Photo byKatarzyna GrabowskaonUnsplash