A new data summary on digital exclusion, social isolation and scams: the risk factors for financial abuse

This data summary covers

• digital exclusion, social isolation and scams as key risk factors for financial abuse
• how financial abuse appears in safeguarding data, and which age groups are most affected
• the rising number of reports of adults at risk in Wales, including 25,492 reports in the year to 31 March 2024
• why older people are nearly three times more likely to be reported as being at risk of abuse or neglect than younger adults
• how different types of abuse, including financial abuse, neglect and physical abuse, affect people differently across age groups
• where suspected abuse takes place, with most cases occurring in people’s own homes, followed by care homes
• the Welsh Government’s national action plan to prevent abuse of older people, including priority areas such as self‑neglect, domestic abuse and financial abuse
• why better data and research is needed to fully understand the scale and nature of financial abuse in Wales

Understanding the findings

Digital exclusion, social isolation and rapid increases in online scams mean some people, particularly older adults, may be more vulnerable to financial abuse.

As more services move online, including banking, benefits and public services, those who are less digitally confident or digitally excluded risk being left behind. Social isolation, bereavement, poorer health and reliance on others for support can also increase vulnerability.

By bringing together available data and evidence, this summary helps us understand:

• where the risks are highest
• who is most vulnerable
• how safeguarding responses might be strengthened
• where more data and research are needed.

It supports ongoing work across Wales to improve safeguarding and prevent financial abuse.

Why data summaries matter

Our data summaries help you make informed decisions based on real-life data. They bring together insights from a range of sources to give you a clear picture of what’s happening in social care in Wales.

Data summaries are designed to make complex information accessible and actionable. They highlight patterns, challenges, and opportunities in social care, helping professionals, policymakers, and the public understand the bigger picture.