Protecting Hawaii’s Kūpuna Since 1997

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A Rising Threat: Scam Victimization Among Hawai‘i’s Kūpuna (2020–2025 Overview)

Scams targeting kūpuna—Hawai‘i’s cherished older adults—are not just rising in numbers but evolving in sophistication. Between 2020 and early 2025, Hawai‘i has witnessed an alarming increase in fraud cases that cost kupuna and their families tens of millions of dollars. While scammers shift their tactics, the need for awareness, prevention, and community support has never been more critical.

This blog offers a data-driven overview of trends and insights from the last five years to empower Hawai‘i residents in protecting their elders.


Scam Statistics at a Glance (2020–2025)

📈 Complaints Filed

💸 Financial Losses


What Types of Scams Are Affecting Kūpuna?

Hawai‘i’s older adults are being targeted by increasingly deceptive and diverse schemes. Notable trends include:


Why Are Kūpuna Vulnerable?

Several factors contribute to the increased risk older adults face:


The Toll Is More Than Financial

Although younger adults report more scams, older adults experience higher average losses. The financial damage is compounded by emotional trauma, eroded trust, and loss of independence.


How We Can Protect Hawai‘i’s Kūpuna

✅ Educate

✅ Monitor

✅ Report


Hawai‘i’s cultural values teach us to mālama (care for) our elders. As scam tactics evolve, so must our vigilance. By staying informed, we honor our kūpuna with the protection, dignity, and respect they deserve.

Let’s stand united against fraud and protect the people who helped shape our communities.

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