**********

Fraud is on the rise! Please be aware that scammers are impersonating BankGloucester employees and claim there are issues involving wires, ACH transactions, debit card activity, or other suspicious transactions. They then attempt to obtain sensitive information or request access to your device. These communications are not from BankGloucester.

For your protection, please remember:

Never click on links or provide account numbers, online banking credentials, passwords, PINs, or security codes to an unsolicited caller.

If you receive a suspicious call or text that appears to be from BankGloucester, hang up and call us directly at (978) 283-8200 to verify the request.

Caller ID can be misleading—scammers can “spoof” legitimate phone numbers to make their calls appear authentic.

If you believe you may have shared personal or account information with a suspicious caller, please contact us at (978) 283-8200 so we can help secure your accounts.

**********

FDIC-Insured - Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government

Elder Financial Abuse: Protecting Your Loved Ones

As our loved ones age, protecting their financial well-being becomes increasingly important. Elder financial abuse is on the rise, often happening quietly through scams, unauthorized transactions, or even misplaced trust. Awareness and early detection are key to prevention.

Learn about common forms of senior financial abuse, key warning signs, and ways to prevent it.

What to Avoid: Common Scams & Exploitation

From Strangers & Scammers

Online Impersonation Scams – Fraudsters posing as government agencies, banks, or family members
Romance Scams – Online relationships used to request money
Investment Fraud – Fake opportunities, products, or excessive “fees”
Sweepstakes & Lottery Scams – Claims of winning a prize that require upfront payment

From Trusted Individuals

Using funds or assets without permission for personal gain
Misusing power of attorney authority
Pressuring or coercing seniors to sign over assets
Withholding funds or failing to pay bills despite available money

Warning Signs to Watch For

Unusual withdrawals or sudden changes in spending patterns
Unpaid bills despite sufficient funds
A new caregiver or friend becoming overly involved in finances
Sudden changes to a will, trust, or power of attorney
Missing money or valuables
Unexplained transfers of assets

How to Help Prevent Financial Abuse

Stay connected — reducing isolation makes it easier to notice changes
Review account statements together each month
Set up safeguards such as account alerts and transaction limits
Serve as a trusted contact on financial accounts

Financial abuse can happen to anyone, but being proactive and taking the steps needed can help prevent it. Know the warning signs, be mindful if something doesn’t seem right, and speak openly with loved ones about financial safety. As always, we’re here to help. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to a trusted BankGloucester staff member.

Additional Info & Resources

American Banking Association Tools

Mass Bankers Protective Resources

Better Business Bureau Videos