Maine credit unions launch video to protect elders from fraud

Credit unions in Maine are working to combat the alarming rise in fraud, especially those targeting older adults, with a new video that addresses both the financial and emotional toll and clear, practical steps to spot and stop financial scams.

The Maine Credit Union League and credit unions collaborated with multiple state agencies including the Maine Attorney General’s Office, Maine State Police, Maine Bureau of Financial Institutions, Legal Services for Maine Elders, as well as a seasoned fraud investigator.  The project underscores one message: combating fraud requires all of us.

“Fraud isn’t just financial—it’s deeply personal. We’re committed to arming Maine families, especially seniors, with knowledge and confidence to stop scammers in their tracks,” said Elise Baldacci, president of the Maine Credit Union League. “Losses from fraud continue to rise, particularly among those over 60, and not everyone reports when they’ve been targeted. That’s why creating this video—and partnering with thought leaders across our state—was so important for us.”

Recent Federal Trade Commission data shows that reports by older adults (age 60+) losing $10,000 or more to government or business impersonator scams quadrupled from 2020 to 2024, while losses above $100,000 have surged as well.

“Awareness is our strongest defense against scams. Scam victims reach out to my office every day with stories about deceptive schemes designed to steal their money, their identity, or both,” said Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey. “I am grateful to the Maine Credit Union League for their partnership in bringing this campaign so more Mainers can arm themselves against scams.”

The Maine Credit Union League is calling on cable access stations across the state to air the video free of charge as a public service.