Legal & Planning Guide

Protecting a loved one from fraud & financial abuse

Older adults are heavily targeted by scammers — and, painfully, financial abuse often comes from someone they know. A little awareness and a few simple safeguards go a long way, and reporting is easier than most families realize.

To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Kansas 1-800-922-5330 · Missouri 1-800-392-0210. In an emergency, call 911. (More numbers below.)

Common scams to watch for

Grandparent / imposter scams — a "grandchild" or official in urgent trouble needing money now.
Government impostors — fake Medicare, Social Security, or IRS calls demanding info or payment.
Sweepstakes & lottery — "you've won," just pay a fee first.
Romance scams — an online "relationship" that always needs money.
Tech-support scams — a pop-up or call claiming the computer is infected.
Contractor & charity fraud — high-pressure home repairs or fake charities.

Warning signs

Unusual bank withdrawals, transfers, or new credit cards.
A new "best friend," caregiver, or romantic interest involved in finances.
Unpaid bills despite having money; missing cash, valuables, or documents.
Secrecy, fear, or confusion around money — or sudden changes to a will or POA.

How to protect them

Set up safeguards at the bank — a "trusted contact," account alerts, and limits.
Simplify and monitor — automatic bill pay and a second set of eyes on statements.
Reduce the noise — register on the Do Not Call list, shred mail, and screen unknown calls.
Talk openly and without shame — scams work on embarrassment; make it safe to ask "does this seem real?"
Get the documents in order — a trusted power of attorney helps a reliable person step in.

How to report — Kansas

DCF Kansas Protection Report Center: 1-800-922-5330 (24/7; abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult in the community).
In a nursing home, hospital, or by a home-health agency: 1-800-842-0078 (KDADS).
Kansas Attorney General Consumer Protection: 1-800-432-2310 (scams and fraud).

How to report — Missouri

DHSS Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 1-800-392-0210 (adults 60+ and disabled adults; phone hours plus 24/7 online reporting).
Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection: 1-800-392-8222 (consumer fraud and scams).

You'll also find these on our report elder abuse resource section. When in doubt, make the call — you don't need proof to report a concern.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Hotline hours can change; the states' online reporting portals are available around the clock.