TL;DR: On 7 September 2026, City of London Police reported that £93.8 million was stolen through fraud by abuse of position in 2025/26 across 3,812 reports. People aged 70 and over lost more than £51 million, and those aged 80 to 89 lost nearly £24 million.

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What the figures show

City of London Police found that 764 reports involved misuse of powers of attorney, with £34.6 million lost, and 444 involved social care workers, totalling £13.3 million. Methods include family or carers using stolen bank cards or making unauthorised transfers, and manipulating wills and estates after death.

Detective Superintendent Oliver Little said these offences can be devastating because they are committed by people who had been trusted.

Warning signs

What families can do

Review a vulnerable relative's statements and any attorney arrangements regularly, and act early on unexplained transactions or changes to a will. Concerns about an attorney can be raised with the Office of the Public Guardian (GOV.UK). Our guides on elder fraud statistics for 2026, how to protect elderly parents from phone scams and what to do after a scam, wherever you live cover safeguards and next steps.

A crime that often stays hidden

These cases are difficult because the offender has legitimate access. The figures include 337 reports that referenced dementia, which shows how vulnerability during cognitive decline and bereavement can be exploited. Families can reduce risk by keeping a record of who has access to cards and accounts, asking for statements to be shared with a trusted second person, and noting any change to a will. If something looks wrong, a calm conversation, a call to the bank and a report to police are better than waiting. The age breakdown is stark: people aged 80 to 89 lost nearly £24 million, the highest of any age band. The report also warns that offenders can manipulate wills and estates after a death, so changes should be questioned promptly.

Where to report

Tell the bank, then report to Report Fraud (Action Fraud) at reportfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much was stolen?

£93.8 million across 3,812 reports in 2025/26, with over-70s losing more than £51 million.

How common is power of attorney misuse?

764 reports involved it, with £34.6 million lost.

What are the warning signs?

Unpaid bills, missing possessions, unexpected changes to wills or bank accounts, and suspicious transactions.

Who handles concerns about an attorney?

The Office of the Public Guardian, alongside a report to Report Fraud and your bank.

Sources

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