INDIANAPOLIS- Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, reminding Hoosiers to be mindful of elder financial abuse, potential exploitation, and scams.
“Respecting our elders is a basic core value. Unfortunately, we have bad actors who are targeting our most vulnerable Hoosiers. While these bad actors often prey on older, unsuspecting Hoosiers, my office offers resources to assist senior citizens and their families in avoiding these scammers intending to cause harm,” said State Diego Morales, Indiana Secretary of State.
June 15 is recognized as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Indiana Securities Division, which is overseen by Secretary Morales, aims to remind Hoosiers that by educating themselves against elder abuse, they can protect both their loved ones and their community.
Elder abuse occurs when older individuals are unaware of the risks and appropriate measures to protect themselves. To combat this, establish an understanding of financial exploitation. This can take form in naming a trusted contact on all accounts, shredding all paperwork containing any documents with personal information, and recognizing that if someone calls you or threatens you with arrest or harm unless you pay them via wire transfer or gift card, hang up immediately.
“The Securities Division will continue to collaborate with our allies in financial institutions, investment advisers, and law enforcement to protect Hoosier seniors. Knowledge is empowerment. We strive to share the red flags of fraud with seniors so they can recognize it as a scam and stop any wrongdoing from happening,” said Marie Castetter, Securities Commissioner.
As a proud partner of IN-CASE (Indiana Council Against Senior Exploitation), the Secretary of State’s Office is committed to providing resources and information to increase awareness by older Hoosiers and the professionals who serve them regarding exploitation and abuse in our communities. If you know of a group or organization that would like a fraud presentation by the Securities Division, please call 317 232-6681.
