DuTrac Community Credit Union Raises Awareness Around Elder Abuse, Encourage Community to “Pause. Ask. Protect.”
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dit unions are taking steps to raise awareness about elder abuse and financial exploitation, encouraging members and the broader community to recognize the signs and take simple actions to help prevent it.
Elder financial abuse is one of the fastest-growing forms of exploitation in the country, often happening quietly and over time. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, financial institutions have reported over 180,000 suspicious cases involving older adults, totaling more than $6 billion in potential and actual losses.
In many cases, the financial impact is significant. The average loss for older adults is more than $34,000, and some cases exceeding $100,000.
Elder abuse doesn’t always look obvious. It often happens gradually and sometimes involves someone the individual knows and trusts. That’s why awareness and early action are so important.
As part of this effort, DuTrac Community Credit Unions is sharing simple steps members can take to stay safe:
Pause. Ask. Protect.
- Pause before making financial decisions, especially when something feels urgent
- Ask a trusted friend, family member, or your credit union for guidance
- Protect personal and financial information
Research shows that suspicious activity related to elder exploitation can continue for months before being detected, making it critical to recognize warning signs early.
DuTrac encourages anyone who notices unusual financial activity or feels uncertain about a situation to reach out before acting. DuTrac is here to help. You don’t have to navigate this on your own.
For more information, contact fr***@****ac.org, call 563-582-1331 or stop into any DuTrac location.
About DuTrac Community Credit Union
DuTrac Community Credit Union is a member-owned full-service financial cooperative with greater than $1.25 billion in total assets, dedicated to improving the financial well-being of its members and supporting the communities it serves through charitable initiatives and community outreach. Federally insured by the NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.
