Former Director William Webster Offers Warning About Elder Fraud

The former director of the FBI and CIA is warning older people—as well as their loved ones and caregivers—to be aware of elder fraud schemes. “If it can happen to me, it can happen to you,” says Webster, 98, who was the target of a lottery scam in 2014.


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William Webster: I served in World War II and Korea.

I was a federal judge.

I was the director of the FBI.

Director of the CIA.

And I was the target of an elder fraud scheme.

Slide: Each year, millions of older Americans fall victim to financial fraud schemes.

Slide: Criminals gain older people’s trust and then prey on their desire for companionship, love, or financial security.

Webster: Don’t fall for scammers’ promises of money, friendship, love, or romance.

These are criminals who want to take one thing: your money.

You’ve worked hard. You’ve saved. Don’t let criminals try to take that away from you.

If you or a loved one have been affected by elder fraud, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or visit ic3.gov to file a complaint.

If it can happen to me, it can happen to you.

Slide: For information and resources, visit fbi.gov/elderfraud.

Slide: Contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or visit ic3.gov to file a complaint.

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