14 Red Flags for Elder Financial Abuse

1. Unusual activity in an older person's bank accounts, including large, request and unexplained withdrawals

2. Changing from a basic account to one that offers more complicated services the customer does not fully understand or need

3. Withdrawals from bank accounts or transfers between accounts the customer cannot explain

4. A new "best friend" accompanying an older person to the bank

5. Sudden non-sufficient fund activity or unpaid bills

6. Closing CDs or accounts without regard to penalties

7. Uncharactistic attempts to wire large sums of money

8. Suspicious signatures on checks, or outright forgery

9. Confusion, fear or lack of awareness on the part of an older customer

10. Checks written as "loans" or "gifts"

11. Bank statements that no longer go to the customer's home

12. New powers of attorney the older person does not understand

13. A caretaker, relative or friend who suddenly begins conducting financial transactions on behalf of an older person without proper documentation

14. Altered wills and trusts