Dementia was referenced in 337 police reports of fraud involving the abuse of a position of trust in 2025/26, new figures show.
The City of London Police said £93.8m was reported stolen through this type of fraud during the year, with more than £51m of the losses involving people aged 70 and over.
Fraud by abuse of position involves someone exploiting a relationship – such as a relative, friend or carer – to gain access to another person’s money or assets.
Police said the misuse of powers of attorney was a particular concern. There were 764 reports involving powers of attorney, with reported losses of £34.6m.
Cases included allegations that people used their authority to make unauthorised withdrawals or take control of money for their own benefit.
Social care workers were linked to a further 444 reports, involving losses of £13.3m.
Some cases involved allegations that workers accessed victims’ bank cards, financial information or personal belongings while providing care.
Police also recorded cases involving family members and friends who allegedly gained access to victims’ finances through regular contact.
In some instances, the alleged abuse continued after a victim had died, including the manipulation of wills, estates and property.
Detective Superintendent, Oliver Little, said: ‘These offences can have a devastating impact because they are committed by people who have been trusted to act in the victim’s best interests.
‘The fact that people aged 70 or over had more than £51m stolen highlights the significant threat this fraud poses to older and sometimes more vulnerable members of our communities.
‘We want families, carers and those responsible for managing another person’s affairs to know the warning signs and report concerns, so we can better protect those at risk.’
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