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.
In his 2019 report to Congress on elder fraud and abuse, Attorney General William Barr states, "Crimes against the elderly are particularly despicable because they exploit and endanger citizens that are among our most vulnerable."
Learn more about the Office for Victims of Crime’s efforts to address elder fraud and abuse and provide services for the victims. This site also offers publications, resources, and training and technical assistance related to elder fraud and abuse.
National Elder Fraud Hotline
The Office for Victims of Crime 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.
VOCA–Funded Elder Abuse Programs
Learn about state and local elder abuse programs supported with Victims of Crime Act funding.
Identification of and Response to Elder Fraud Victims
The Office for Victims of Crime recently 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.