Which of the following is a sign of financial exploitation?

• A. Disappearance of checkbooks
• B. Regular dental visits
• C. Pay raises
• D. New furniture

Answer: (A)

Recognizing signs of financial exploitation is about noticing when someone’s money and financial controls are being restricted or misused. A clear indicator is when essential financial tools disappear, such as checkbooks going missing. If checkbooks are gone, the person can no longer write checks to pay bills, and it becomes much easier for someone else to steal or divert funds or to hide transactions. This loss of access or control over money is a common tactic used by someone taking advantage of the victim.

Regular dental visits show ongoing personal care and health maintenance, not financial manipulation. A pay raise reflects an increase in income and doesn’t by itself point to exploitation. New furniture could be a legitimate purchase or a sign of lifestyle change, but on its own it doesn’t specifically indicate financial exploitation.