Elder Fraud

The Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting the elderly and vigorously prosecuting those who would scam and harm senior citizens.

Criminal Targeting

The Elder Fraud Unit realizes that along with the pleasures of growing older and having more leisure time, senior citizens are also vulnerable to certain crimes. Some criminals prey on seniors, who often have more assets, are more willing to trust others, and maybe vulnerable because of loneliness or diminishing physical or mental faculties. Criminals may attempt to exploit the trust of a senior citizen by stealing their money, or physically abusing, or neglecting them.

The Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office is committed to fighting elder fraud and improving the quality of life for seniors. The Elder Fraud Unit is specially-trained and dedicated to prosecuting financial crimes against the elderly.

Senior Defense

The most effective line of defense against elder fraud is seniors themselves, followed by their families. By resisting high-pressure sales tactics, taking time to make decisions, and - most importantly - discussing personal matters with trusted friends and loved ones, seniors can often prevent many forms of elder fraud.

If you suspect someone is attempting to victimize you or a senior you know, please contact the Adult Protective Services Hotline at 1-800-252-5400, or online at Texas Abuse Hotline website. You can also contact your local law enforcement agency.

Tips on Elder Scam (TOES)

Is Grandma Getting Scammed? Watch for these signs:
  • Banking activity that is inconsistent with the senior's habits, such as unusually large withdrawals or ATM use
  • Financial statements that seem unusual or suspicious
  • Checks written out of their numerical order
  • Signature that seems unusual or suspicious
  • Abrupt or unexplained change in durable power of attorney
  • Allegations of missing funds from a senior's account
  • Sudden increases in credit card activity or a flurry of bounced checks

Protect Yourself

  • Cancel all credit cards you are not using
  • Never keep the Personal Identification Number (PIN) for your ATM card in your wallet.  If you need to write it down, be sure to keep it in a secure place.
  • Never give your credit card or ATM cards to a family member or friend to buy things for you.  Whenever possible, give them cash or reimburse them with a check.
  • Try to balance your checkbook, or have your bank or a trusted family member or friend do it for you on a monthly basis.  Immediately inform your bank or credit card companies of any activity that does not appear to be your own.
  • Report financial abuse to Adult Protective Services by calling 1-800-252-5400 or online at www.txabusehotline.org.  You can also contact your local law enforcement agency.
  • Review your credit report.  You are entitled to a free credit report each year from the credit reporting agencies.

Experian
Experian website
1-888-397-3742

Equifax
Equifax website
1-800-685-1111 (request report)
1-800-525-6285 (report fraud)

Transunion
Transunion website
1-800-888-4213 (request report) 1-800-680-7289 (report fraud)

Helpful Numbers

Social Services

Legal Services

  • Community Law Center: 210-271-9595
  • Wills Clinic: 210-212-3740
  • San Antonio Bar Association, Lawyer Referral: 210-227-1853
  • Legal Aid Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid/San Antonio: 210-212-3700