WEEKLY SCAM NEWS
Senior Scam Alerts: Week of March 16, 2025

Here’s your weekly roundup of scams impacting older Americans:

• Romance Scam Prevention Act in Tennessee targets rising dating app fraud against seniors

• FCC issues report warning seniors of Grandparent Scam Robocalls using AI

• Massachusetts Lab indicted on $8,000,000 Medicare Fraud

EDUCATION
Fraud vs Scams: What’s the Difference?

Today’s main story is on fraud, which is different than a scam. At Senior Scam Alerts, our goal is to educate older Americans on the criminals out there looking to steal your money.

Both fraud and scams are illegal.

Fraud typically involves unauthorized access to the victim’s account or assets. The victim is unaware of the transactions taking place. This includes identity theft or when someone you know steals your information to open a credit card or access an account.

Whereas, in a scam the the criminal tricks the victim into willingly participating in the crime. The victim is unaware a scam is happening because they believe the scam. This includes criminals who impersonate an IRS agent, love interest, or even your grandchild to convince you to send them money.

Both frauds and scams are crimes. The reason we typically focus on scams more than fraud is because victims of scams are typically stuck without legal, emotional, and financial support. Some law organizations don’t pursue scams as crimes because the victim participated. It’s a catch-22 that needs to end - both are victims of a crime.

ELDER FRAUD
Shattered Trust: Personal Assistant Steals $10 Million from her Elderly Employers

I couldn't believe it when I first read about the case against Catalina Corona. Personal assistant steals millions from her elderly employers to fund a lavish lifestyle - including over $1 million in Louis Vuitton purses, luggage, and apparel!

This case is not just about money, it represents a heartbreaking betrayal against trusting victims. Elder fraud is a major issue in the US. Unfortunately, most victims don’t realize when it’s happening and many don’t want to report it due to knowing the criminal or shame.

The Case of Catalina Corona

Catalina Corona, a 61-year-old personal assistant, was arraigned on an indictment charging her with wire fraud, bank fraud and aggravated identity theft on March 13, 2025, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn.

According to the court finding, Corona worked for an elderly couple as a personal assistant, allowing her access to their private lives, including their checkbooks and banking information.

Between approximately 2017 and 2024, Corona stole hundreds of checks, forged the victim’s signatures, and paid herself without the knowledge or consent of the victims. Corona also posed as one of the victims when calling the bank to request information related to their accounts.

During this time, she allegedly siphoned off nearly $10 million from her employer.

What did Corona buy with the stolen money?

Corona used the stolen funds to pay off her credit cards, purchase luxury items from brand including Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Gucci, and pay for travel. In one day, Corona allegedly spent $25,000 in one day on air travel.

How did the victims find out?

On April 3, 2024, Corona called the bank regarding a $1,500 check. The Bank representative grew suspicious and called the victim later regarding the matter.

Upon speaking to the bank representative, the elderly victim denied authoring the check, prompting further investigation. The victim explained she never wrote checks out to cash and soon discovered that Corona had been forging checks from their accounts. After further investigation, it was discovered that Corona was also transferring funds directly from the victims’ accounts into her personal account.

The Legal Consequences

As the investigation unfolded, federal charges were brought against Corona for wire fraud, bank fraud, and identity theft. If convicted, she could face up to 30 years in prison.

The Emotional and Financial Toll on Victims

The implications of Corona's actions extend far beyond mere financial loss. The emotional impact on her victims is profound.

Imagine hiring someone for assistance, only to discover that they have been stealing from you. It’s a betrayal that can lead to feelings of vulnerability and helplessness.

Although, some money may be recovered, we must support victims of both elder fraud and scams to help them recover.

The Broader Impact of Elder Fraud

This case is not just about one individual’s greed, it reflects a larger issue in our society. Elderly individuals are often seen as easy targets for exploitation. They may not have the resources or knowledge to detect fraud. This situation calls for increased awareness and protective measures for vulnerable populations.

As we reflect on the case of Catalina Corona, we must ask ourselves: what can we do to prevent such exploitation? How can we better protect those who are most at risk? These questions are crucial as we navigate the complexities of caregiving and financial security.

Recognizing Signs of Elder Financial Abuse

First and foremost, we need to call on our communities to recognize the signs of elder financial abuse. But what does that look like? Here are some common indicators:

• Unexplained withdrawals or transfers from bank accounts.

• Sudden changes in financial behavior or spending habits.

• Unpaid bills or lack of basic necessities.

• New, unexplained relationships with caregivers or financial advisors.

These signs may seem subtle at first, but they can indicate a much larger problem. If you notice any of these behaviors in an elderly loved one, it’s crucial to investigate further. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

The Importance of Legal Protections

Next, let’s highlight the importance of legal protections for the elderly. Legal frameworks exist to safeguard our elders, but they often go underutilized. We must advocate for stronger laws and regulations that protect vulnerable populations from financial exploitation.

For instance, many states have laws that allow for the reporting of suspected elder abuse. These laws empower individuals to speak up when they see something suspicious. As U.S. Attorney John Durham stated regarding the Corona case, “We must remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding against elder abuse and financial exploitation.” This vigilance is not just the responsibility of law enforcement; it’s a community effort.

Strategies for Family Members

So, what can family members do to safeguard their loved ones' finances? Here are some effective strategies:

1. Stay Informed: Regularly discuss financial matters with your elderly relatives. Make sure they understand their financial situation.

2. Monitor Accounts: Help them keep track of bank statements and transactions. Look for anything unusual.

3. Encourage Independence: While it’s important to help, encourage your loved ones to remain involved in their financial decisions.

4. Utilize Technology: Set up alerts for large transactions or changes in account balances. Technology can be a powerful ally.

By implementing these strategies, we can help protect our loved ones from becoming victims of financial exploitation. It’s about empowerment, education, and vigilance.

Community Initiatives

Communities play a crucial role in combating elder financial abuse. Various initiatives have proven effective in raising awareness and providing resources. For example, local organizations often host workshops to educate families about the signs of elder abuse. These workshops can be invaluable for caregivers and family members alike.

Moreover, community outreach programs can connect vulnerable populations with legal resources. They can help navigate the complexities of elder law, ensuring that our elders are protected. The more we educate ourselves and our communities, the better equipped we will be to fight against this troubling trend.