Dealing with fraudulent subscriptions and recurring charges for a loved one with dementia requires careful attention and proactive steps to protect their finances and peace of mind. People with dementia are especially vulnerable to scams because they may forget conversations, feel pressured, or have difficulty recognizing deceitful tactics. Here are practical ways to help manage and prevent these fraudulent charges.
First, regularly review bank and credit card statements together or on their behalf. Look for any unfamiliar or repeated charges that could indicate a subscription or service they did not knowingly sign up for. Many scammers use small recurring charges to avoid immediate detection. Setting up alerts with the bank for any new or large transactions can also help catch suspicious activity early.
Next, consider placing safeguards on financial accounts. This might include setting up joint accounts with trusted family members, establishing powers of attorney, or creating trusts that limit access to funds. These legal tools can help control who can authorize payments and provide oversight to prevent unauthorized charges.
It is also important to secure personal information. Avoid sharing passwords, credit card numbers, or Medicare details over the phone or online unless you have verified the identity of the requester independently. Scammers often impersonate officials or companies to trick people into giving sensitive data. Encourage your loved one never to respond to unsolicited calls or emails asking for payment information or to confirm subscriptions.
If you discover fraudulent subscriptions, contact the service providers immediately to cancel the charges and request refunds if possible. Report the fraud to the bank or credit card company to dispute unauthorized transactions. Additionally, report the scam to relevant authorities such as the police, consumer protection agencies, or organizations specializing in elder fraud prevention.
Educate your loved one about common scam tactics, such as pressure to act quickly, offers that sound too good to be true, or requests for upfront fees. Encourage them to pause and ask for help before making any decisions about subscriptions or payments. Using call-blocking tools or spam filters can reduce exposure to telemarketing scams.
Finally, when searching for services or subscriptions online, verify the legitimacy of websites by checking for secure connections (look for “https” in the URL) and reading reviews. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads that promise free trials or discounted products without clear terms.
By combining vigilance, legal protections, education, and open communication, families can significantly reduce the risk of fraudulent subscriptions and recurring charges affecting a loved one with dementia.
Sources
http://www.citizenscrimewatch.org/scams-targeting-alzheimers-patients-and-their-families-how-to-recognize-and-protect-against-exploitation
https://www.bbelderlaw.com/medicare-fraud/
https://www.helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/care-advice/how-to-help-the-elderly-avoid-scams/
https://ergsy.com/information/what-steps-can-i-take-help-elderly-loved-one-avoid-scams/orphans/38543/38544
