Florida Identity Theft and Elder Abuse: Protecting Seniors From Scams

Scammers are more sophisticated than ever, using AI and voice recordings to steal valuable information from seniors. It’s vital to understand how common Florida elderly identity theft and elder abuse is, and what you can do to protect seniors from scams.

Why Seniors Are Targeted for Florida Identity Theft

Older Americans are prime candidates for identity theft because they are trusting, polite, and usually have more assets. They may believe they understand what’s happening or be embarrassed to admit they were scammed, allowing the theft to continue. They may also share too much information on social media sites, making it easier for thieves to commit identity theft.

Common Scams Targeting Florida Seniors

Scammers use a variety of techniques to gain trust and then steal what they can. Common approaches include:

Online shopping scams: Fake emails that look legitimate but link to scam sites that collect payment information for identity theft.
Phone call scams: Scammers spoof their area codes to seem as if they’re calling from a local number and even government agencies.
Tech scams: Scammers call saying you have computer problems and need to pay them to fix it.
Dating scams: Seniors on dating apps can develop a romantic connection with someone who won’t meet them in person and ask for money.
Lottery scams: Scammers notify the individual they won a big sum of money but have to pay a processing fee to get it.

The Florida Sheriff’s Association warns that other scams involve fake home repair companies, fake charities, Social Security, investing, and telemarketing. It also recorded about 9,000 cases of elder fraud in Florida annually, with a 40% rise over the last five years.

Warning Signs of Florida Elder Identity Theft

As a family member, you can help your senior loved one guard against identity theft and financial exploitation. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency recommends looking for these warning signs:

Unexpected withdrawals from bank or retirement accounts, especially in large amounts
Unexplained purchases or credit card activity to unknown sellers
Isolation from family members or advisors or unwillingness to discuss money
Fear of caregivers or reluctance to speak openly around them
New romantic interests that push for access to money or accounts
New lines of credit opened in the individual’s name they don’t recall requesting

Remind your senior family members to protect their personal details and never share them with others. They should avoid using unfamiliar payment methods and clicking links from unknown senders. Above all, tell them that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

How Florida Law Protects Seniors From Scams

In 2024, Florida passed Senate Bill 556, titled the Protection of Specified Adults, to allow banks to delay processing transactions if they suspect fraud. Effective January 1, 2025, the law protects the elderly, minor children, and others who may be victims of identity theft or scams. In addition, the Florida Adult Protective Services Act requires mandatory reporters to notify the authorities if they suspect elder abuse, including financial fraud.

What to Do if You Suspect Florida Elder Identity Theft

Your first job is to contact the police and report a crime against your loved one. You can also work with the following groups and agencies to get education and assistance:

You can also speak with a Florida identity theft attorney to understand how to protect your family member from further harm.

How Sharmin & Sharmin’s Elderly Identity Theft Lawyers Can Help

In Section 415.1111 of the Adult Protective Services Act, seniors or their personal representatives can take legal action against those who exploited them. With help from a skilled legal team, they can seek compensation for financial and other losses caused by identity theft.

Sharmin & Sharmin stands ready to guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit to recover what your loved one lost, starting with a free consultation. Contact us to arrange a meeting with us today.