Financial abuse happens when someone in a position of trust or power takes money or resources in ways that harm a person’s financial security. It can also occur when an older adult is pressured, intimidated, or shamed by someone they care about into giving money or financial support.
Financial abuse is the most common form of abuse experienced by older adults and vulnerable adults.
It often occurs alongside other forms of abuse, such as psychological or emotional abuse, and is frequently committed by someone the person knows — including a family member, friend, or caregiver. Staying connected to a trusted network of family, friends, and community supports is key to preventing and identifying financial abuse.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing financial abuse, support is available. This section provides trusted information, tools, and organizations that can help you recognize abuse, understand your options, and take next steps. You are not alone, connecting with the right resources can make a difference.
Contacts
- Seniors Abuse & Information Line (SAIL) – Seniors First BC
A confidential information line for older adults and those who care about them to speak to a professional intake worker. 1-866-437-1940 or in the lower mainland 604-437-1940.
- Local Police/RCMP – Can assist with investigations and reporting to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Public Guardian & Trustee of British Columbia – Help for citizens concerned about vulnerable adults who cannot manage their own financial, legal and personal care matters
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – Info on past and current scams affecting Canadians
- Canada Revenue Agency – Scam alerts
- People’s Law School – Scams & Identity Theft
- Credit Reports – Equifax & Transunion
Other Web Links
- Competition Bureau of Canada – Fraud Prevention Month
- Elder Financial Abuse – BC Securities Commission
- Financial Abuse, Protecting British Columbia’s Seniors – Province of BC
- Protect Yourself From Financial Scams – Canadian Bankers Association
- Cyber-Smart.ca – Cybersecurity awareness for seniors
- Get Cyber Safe – Government of Canada
- Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments
Documents
- How to Tell Someone You Are Being Abuse: Starting the Conversation – Province of BC
- Are You Dating? Older Adults & Healthy Relationships – Province of BC
- How to Start a Conversation About Elder Financial Abuse – BC Securities Commission
- Be Fraud Aware – BC Securities Commission
- Little Black Book of Scams – Competition Bureau Canada
Videos
