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An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

Elder Fraud & Abuse

Overview

Elder abuse, also known as elder mistreatment, generally refers to any knowing, intentional, or negligent act that causes harm or creates a serious risk of harm to an older person by a family member, caregiver, or other person in a trust relationship.

Learn more about the OVC’s efforts to address elder fraud and abuse and provide services for the victims and discover publications, resources, and training and technical assistance related to elder fraud and abuse.

National Elder Fraud Hotline

OVC supports the National Elder Fraud Hotline. Call 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311) to receive help from a hotline case manager.  

Elder Justice Initiative

The U.S. Department of Justice's Elder Justice Initiative supports and coordinates the Department’s efforts to combat elder abuse, neglect, and financial fraud that target our Nation’s seniors.

Identification of and Response to Elder Fraud Victims

In FY 2020, OVC awarded $2 million to the National White Collar Crime Center to provide enhance law enforcement's ability to identify older victims of fraud, connect those victims with available services, and bring the fraudsters to justice.

VOCA–Funded Elder Abuse Programs

Learn about state and local elder abuse programs supported with Victims of Crime Act funding.