Seniors Banking Support & Protection

Information for Seniors

Our Promise

At Santander Consumer Bank Canada, we believe every customer deserves to manage their finances with confidence, security, and independence. We are committed to helping seniors navigate financial decisions, protect themselves from fraud, and access the support they need to achieve their financial goals.

As Canadians live longer and increasingly manage their finances through digital channels, protecting personal information and financial well-being has become more important than ever. We recognize that seniors may face unique challenges, including financial abuse, fraud, scams, and accessibility barriers.

This Seniors Banking Support and Protection Webpage has been created to provide information, guidance, and resources that help seniors make informed financial decisions and access assistance when needed.

Our Commitment to Seniors

Santander Consumer Bank Canada is committed to:

  • Treating seniors with dignity, respect, and fairness.
  • Providing clear and easy-to-understand information.
  • Supporting accessibility and inclusion.
  • Helping customers recognize and avoid fraud and financial abuse.
  • Aiding customers experiencing vulnerability.
  • Promoting financial confidence and independence.

We strive to ensure that every customer has access to the information and support they need to manage their finances safely through accessible banking services, financial education, and fraud prevention resources.

Recognizing Financial Abuse

Financial abuse occurs when money, property, or financial resources are used improperly without a person's informed consent.

EXAMPLES MAY INCLUDE:

  • Unauthorized use of bank accounts or credit products.
  • Pressure to withdraw or transfer funds.
  • Misuse of powers of attorney.
  • Coercion by family members, caregivers, or acquaintances.
  • Fraudulent schemes targeting seniors.

Warning signs may include unusual account activity, unexplained withdrawals, changes in financial behaviour, or pressure from others to make financial decisions.

If you believe you are experiencing financial abuse, contact us immediately.

Protecting Yourself from Fraud & Scams

Fraudsters often target seniors through sophisticated schemes designed to create urgency, fear, or trust.

Common scams include:

IMPERSONATION SCAMS

Scammers pretend to be banks, government agencies, law enforcement officials, or utility providers.

EMERGENCY OR FAMILY SCAMS

Fraudsters claim that a relative is in trouble and urgently needs money.

ROMANCE SCAMS

Criminals build trust through online relationships before requesting financial assistance.

INVESTMENT SCAMS

Fraudsters promise unusually high or guaranteed returns with little risk.

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT SCAMS

Scammers claim that a computer or mobile device has been compromised and request payment or remote access.

REMEMBER:

  1. Never share passwords or security codes.
  2. Never send money because of pressure or threats.
  3. Verify requests independently before acting.
  4. Contact the organization directly using publicly available contact information.

If you receive a suspicious communication claiming to be from Santander Consumer Bank Canada, contact us directly before taking action.

We encourage you to learn more about Fraud and Scams here.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud you can find resources here and can make a report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre here.

Support for Family Members and Caregivers

Family members and caregivers often play an important role in supporting seniors with financial matters.

We encourage discussions about:

  • Financial planning.
  • Fraud prevention.
  • Trusted contacts.
  • Powers of attorney.
  • Emergency preparedness.

When appropriate legal authority exists, caregivers and representatives may be able to assist customers with managing financial matters.

Accessibility & Inclusive Service

Santander Consumer Bank Canada is committed to providing accessible banking services for all customers. See our Accessibility page here.

We work to ensure that our communications, products, and services are designed with accessibility in mind and that customers can obtain assistance in a manner that meets their needs.

If you require accommodation or additional support, please contact us.

When to Contact Us

Please contact us if:

  • You suspect fraud or financial abuse.
  • You notice unauthorized transactions.
  • You receive suspicious communications.
  • You need assistance understanding a product or service.
  • You require accessibility accommodations.
  • You would like information about support resources available to seniors.

Our representatives are available to help customers access information, understand their options, and take appropriate next steps.

Additional Resources

Customers may also wish to consult resources provided by:

These organizations provide educational information about financial literacy, fraud prevention, and consumer protection.