In observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, the Department of Justice has announced renewed efforts to safeguard American seniors from international fraud schemes that have led to substantial financial losses. Recent actions by department prosecutors have resulted in arrests and charges against both foreign fraudsters and domestic individuals who have aided these crimes.
“Cases involving elder fraud are among the most heartbreaking cases our law enforcement partners investigate and that we prosecute,” stated Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom. “This office and federal, state, and local law enforcement are committed to working together to hold accountable those who prey on some of our most vulnerable citizens.”
The Department has emphasized various measures taken, including in Rhode Island, against perpetrators involved in romance fraud, lottery fraud, tech support scams, and grandparent scams. These fraudulent activities exploit victims by pretending romantic interest or misleading them about non-existent prizes or technical issues.
On June 12, 2025, a British national from Northern Ireland was convicted for involvement in a construction and money laundering scheme targeting seniors across several states. The conspiracy defrauded victims out of more than a million dollars by misrepresenting construction needs.
Additionally, on May 21, 2025, eight individuals were indicted for orchestrating transnational fraud schemes affecting elderly citizens in the U.S. and Canada. Approximately 300 individuals across at least 37 states suffered losses exceeding $5 million due to deceptive pop-up messages.
Earlier on November 4, 2024, two residents from Florida and New York faced charges related to grandparent scams affecting seniors in multiple states with losses totaling at least $230,000.
The Department highlights the significant challenges victims face when attempting to recover financially from such schemes. It stresses the importance of achieving victim restitution where possible.
The National Elder Fraud Hotline offers free assistance for older adults experiencing financial fraud. Managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, it provides personalized support and can help report incidents to relevant authorities.
Individuals are urged to remain vigilant against fraudulent communications promising large prizes in exchange for fees. If someone aged 60 or older is affected by financial fraud, they can seek help through the hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).
Further information on elder protection efforts is available through various resources provided by the Department of Justice.
All allegations mentioned remain subject to legal proceedings where defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
