Elder financial fraud is affecting many Maryland families. In 2024, one in 20 older Marylanders reported being targeted, with losses totaling $47 million, nearly five times higher than just a few years ago. The average loss per victim is about $83,000.

During Protect Week, our office was proud to stand with Maryland’s chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and partners across the state to raise awareness of this issue.

Today’s scams are more sophisticated than ever. Criminals impersonate family members, pose as government officials, and even use artificial intelligence to mimic familiar voices.

I recently heard about a Montgomery County resident who was pressured for hours by someone posing as a law enforcement officer. By the time she realized it was a scam, she had lost $10,000.

There is no shame in being targeted. These scams are designed to manipulate and deceive. Here are a few ways to protect yourself and your loved ones:

* Pause before acting on urgent requests
* Never send money through gift cards or cryptocurrency
* Hang up and verify calls independently
* Talk to someone you trust before making financial decisions

This legislative session, the Maryland General Assembly passed the Vulnerable Adult Banking Protection Act, which authorizes banks and credit unions to pause suspicious transactions and contact trusted individuals when exploitation is suspected, giving them a more active role in protecting Marylanders’ hard-earned savings.

Protecting Maryland seniors is about dignity, security, and peace of mind. We all have a role to play. Check in on your loved ones. Start conversations. Stay alert.

Thank you for being part of a community that looks out for one another.

My best,

Brooke

(She, Her, Hers)

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Authorized by Brooke Lierman for Maryland; Chairman, Erek Barron; Treasurer, Candace Dodson-Reed.

Brooke Lierman for Maryland
PO Box 891
Baltimore, MD 21203
United States

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