Recognizing the Red Flags to Help Protect the Ones You Love
Financial exploitation is one of the fastest-growing forms of elder abuse, affecting millions of older adults each year. Scammers—and sometimes even trusted individuals—take advantage of seniors through deception, manipulation, or unauthorized access to their finances.
The good news? Recognizing the warning signs early can make all the difference. At Texas Health Credit Union, we're committed to being Your Partner in Financial Health, helping members protect what they've worked so hard to build.
Financial Red Flags
Watch for unusual banking activity that doesn't match a person's normal financial habits, including:
- Unexplained withdrawals from dormant or inactive accounts
- Frequent or unusually large ATM or cash withdrawals
- Large or repeated gift card purchases
- Money transfers without a clear purpose or explanation
Behavioral Red Flags
Financial exploitation often comes with changes in behavior or relationships. Be aware if an older adult:
- Becomes isolated from family, friends, or trusted advisors
- Has a new person who suddenly takes control of their finances or speaks on their behalf
Scam Warning Signs
Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and confusion. Common warning signs include:
- Pressure to act immediately or keep a payment secret
- Calls or messages from someone pretending to be a government agency, financial institution, or family member
- Transactions involving "prizes," "winnings," or unexpected rewards
- Requests to send money through wire transfers
Document & Account Changes
Pay attention to unexpected account activity, such as:
- Transactions that don't fit established spending patterns
- Closing or changing accounts despite penalties or financial loss
If You Suspect Financial Exploitation
Don't wait. Acting quickly can help prevent additional losses.
If something doesn't seem right:
- Contact Adult Protective Services or local law enforcement.
- Notify your financial institution immediately.
- Document suspicious transactions and keep any related records or communications.
We're Here to Help
Protecting your financial well-being is at the heart of everything we do. If you notice suspicious account activity or have concerns about a loved one's finances, contact Texas Health Credit Union. Our team is here to answer questions, provide guidance, and help safeguard your accounts.
Because protecting your financial future isn't just what we do—it's why we're proud to be Your Partner in Financial Health.