Attorney General Alan Wilson and Office of the Attorney General mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2025

Promotes awareness of social isolation’s impact on older investors

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) — In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, Attorney General Alan Wilson is raising awareness about the devastating impact social isolation can have on older investors in South Carolina.

Social isolation, whether voluntary or involuntary, significantly contributes to the financial exploitation of older investors. Using personal details from obituaries and social media posts, scammers often target seniors during vulnerable times, such as health crises or after the death of a loved one.  Scammers may also exploit trust within seniors' social and support groups to become more involved in their lives.

“We are committed to empowering older investors in South Carolina and their loved ones with the tools they need to prevent investment fraud. Knowledge and vigilance are our best defenses against scammers,” said Attorney General Wilson.

To protect older investors, the Attorney General’s Office stresses the importance of regular contact with seniors to reduce isolation and vulnerability. Open conversations within families about fraud and scams can also enhance seniors' security and reduce their risk of financial exploitation.

The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), of which South Carolina is a member, has developed resources on how to protect yourself from investment scams. You can find NASAA’s investor advisories on its website, including one on social isolation and the risk of investment fraud.

Attorney General Wilson asks anyone with suspicions of possible senior financial exploitation to contact the Securities Division of the Attorney General’s Office by calling 803-734-9916 or by emailing [email protected].  Investors can submit a complaint or request an investor protection speaker by visiting the Attorney General’s Office website at InformedInvestorSC.com.