What should a credit union do if one of its employees suspects a member is being financially exploited? Janet Wilks of Elder Abuse Prevention offers these suggestions: * Speak to the member in private and alone, if possible without the suspect present. The elderly victim will probably not speak freely in front of a victimizer, or the suspect may intimidate the elder in order to keep them from revealing the exploitation. * Ask the member non-threatening questions. Few people, whether elderly or not, are willing to define themselves as "abused" or "exploited," especially in a business setting. It's important to start with non-threatening questions that establish a caring relationship between the credit union and the victim. * Questions should be clear, direct and factually based. It's often best to offer questions in a conversational manner. An interrogator approach is likely to make someone defensive. * Get photographic evidence if possible. * Check to see if there is a completed "Advance Directive on Financial Management Form" on file for the victim. * Provide a fraud alert form for all members warning them of the dangers of carrying cash. -
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