New Laws Target Fraud, Elder Abuse in Oklahoma

Two new state laws — both of which were set to take effect Nov. 1 — focus on enhancing protections for older adults.

One AARP-backed law sets regulations for the use of cryptocurrency kiosks, also called crypto ATMs. Criminals have been increasingly using the machines to steal money via transactions that are difficult for law enforcement to trace. The kiosks can look like regular bank ATMs and are often located in gas stations, grocery stores and other businesses. The new law sets a daily transaction limit of $2,000 for new customers, among other safeguards.

Another new law — the Oklahoma Elder Exploitation and Abuse Act — creates a civil legal pathway for incapacitated and vulnerable adults to seek justice against those who abuse, neglect or exploit them.

The law allows claims to be filed by an individual or a designee in any district court where the adult lives or lived at the time of the incident. It also enables courts to issue restraining orders and ensures access to relevant records. Go to aarp.org/ok to learn more.