How to protect people with dementia from scams and fraud

People living with dementia are at increased risk of scams and fraud due to changes in memory, judgement, decision-making and communication. Criminals may deliberately target vulnerable individuals through phone calls, emails, texts and doorstep visits.

To help families and carers reduce this risk, Dementia UK has partnered with security expert and TV presenter Marc Cananur to share practical advice on how to protect people with dementia from scams, including how to recognise warning signs and prevent financial abuse.

Nearly one million people are living with dementia in the UK, meaning more families than ever may need support to safeguard loved ones from fraud.

Why are people with dementia more vulnerable to scams?

People living with dementia may find it harder to:

• Recognise suspicious behaviour
• Remember previous conversations or transactions
• Make informed financial decisions
• Identify when something doesn’t feel right

This can make common scams—such as phishing emails, phone fraud and doorstep scams—more difficult to detect.

How to protect a person with dementia from scams and fraud

Marc Cananur and Dementia UK’s specialist Admiral Nurses recommend the following steps to reduce the risk of scams and financial abuse.

1. Reduce exposure to common scams

Many scams begin with unsolicited contact. Limiting this contact can prevent fraud before it starts.

• Register with the Telephone Preference Service to reduce unwanted marketing calls
• Use call-blocking services through your phone provider
• Set up spam filters on email accounts
• Place a ‘no cold callers’ sign on the front door

2. Protect finances and reduce fraud risk

Simplifying financial arrangements can help prevent mistakes and make suspicious activity easier to spot.

• Set up direct debits for regular bills
• Keep only small amounts of cash available
• Use daily withdrawal limits on bank cards
• Enable banking alerts for unusual transactions
• Set up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for property and financial affairs

Choosing a trusted person to help manage finances can provide an additional layer of protection.

3. Spot the warning signs of scams and fraud

Early detection is key. Family members, friends and carers should look out for:

• Large or unusual withdrawals
• New “friends” asking for money
• Unpaid bills despite available funds
• Confusion about purchases or payments
• Frequent calls from unknown numbers
• Reluctance to discuss finances

Key rules to avoid scams and fraud

Marc Cananur advises that both carers and people living with dementia follow these essential safety rules:

• Never share bank details with someone who contacts you unexpectedly
• Hang up on callers asking for money or passwords
• Do not click links in unknown emails or text messages
• Always check with a trusted person before sending money
• Report suspected fraud immediately to Action Fraud or Citizens Advice