Signs of financial abuse to look out for

Financial abuse often happens quietly and can be difficult to recognise. Knowing the signs can help you understand when something isn't right – whether it's happening to you or someone you care about.

By spotting the warning signs early, you can take steps to protect your money and your wellbeing.

Being controlled or restricted

These signs relate to someone taking control of your money or limiting your financial independence.

• Someone else decides how your money is spent or manages your bank accounts without your consent.
• You're not allowed to access your own money, cards, or account information.
• You're pressured to share your banking passwords or PINs.

Feeling pressured or manipulated

These behaviours involve intimidation, guilt, or emotional pressure to influence your financial decisions.

• You're forced or talked into taking out loans or credit cards, or signing documents you don't understand.
• Your pay or benefits are deposited into an account you can't access.
• You feel anxious or fearful about spending money or making financial decisions on your own.
• You're being sent abusive or threatening messages.

Having your money or property used without consent

These signs may indicate someone is taking or using your money, belongings, or financial information without your permission.

• Money goes missing, or you notice unusual transactions you didn't authorise.
• Someone takes or sells your possessions without asking.
• You're excluded from important financial decisions about shared assets or bills.

Being made financially dependent

These signs suggest someone is keeping you dependent by limiting your access to essential items or financial resources.

• You're given little or no access to money for essentials like food, transport or healthcare.
• Bills, rent or your mortgage aren't being paid, even when there's enough money available.