Navigating the Power of Attorney Decision for a Loved One with Online Scamming or Catfishing Addiction

Behavioral addictions, such as compulsive engagement with online scammers or catfishing, can have devastating consequences—both emotionally and financially. Family members watching a loved one fall prey to deception may feel powerless, especially as their trust and resources are continually exploited. When the situation escalates to a point where financial stability, mental health, or safety is at risk, the difficult question arises: Should power of attorney (POA) be imposed? As an addiction specialist, I want to explore this complex issue, helping families weigh their options and make informed, compassionate decisions. 

Understanding the Addiction to Online Scammers and Catfishing

Unlike substance addictions, behavioral addictions are driven by compulsive engagement in an activity despite harmful consequences. People struggling with online scamming addiction may persistently engage with fraudsters, send money to deceptive individuals, or become emotionally dependent on fake online relationships. Often, the driving forces behind this behavior include: 

- Emotional Vulnerability: A deep need for connection, validation, or companionship. 
- Cognitive Distortion: The inability to recognize deception, fueled by hope, denial, or manipulation. 
- Financial Recklessness: An increasing pattern of financial loss despite warnings from loved ones. 

Over time, these behaviors can jeopardize their financial security, emotional well-being, and even personal safety. 

When Should Families Consider Power of Attorney?

POA grants legal authority to make financial or healthcare decisions on behalf of another person. While it is a powerful tool, imposing POA on someone struggling with addiction should be a last resort, approached with caution and ethical considerations. Here are situations where it may be necessary: 

1. Severe Financial Losses
   - If a loved one is repeatedly draining savings, retirement funds, or taking out loans to send money to scammers, POA may be needed to prevent financial ruin. 
   - Signs of reckless spending without logical reasoning indicate impaired judgment that requires intervention. 

2. Decline in Mental or Emotional Stability 
   - If the addiction causes extreme distress, isolation, paranoia, or significant mental health deterioration, POA can provide safeguards for essential care. 
   - Individuals refusing to acknowledge deception despite overwhelming evidence may be experiencing cognitive impairment. 

3. Legal Consequences
   - If a loved one engages in fraudulent activities under manipulation (e.g., laundering money or identity fraud), POA can prevent further harm and protect them from legal trouble. 

4. Inability to Manage Daily Responsibilities
   - When addiction leads to neglected healthcare, unpaid bills, or an inability to perform basic self-care, POA can help maintain essential needs. 

Alternative Steps Before Imposing POA

Before taking legal action, families should explore gentler interventions: 

- Counseling & Therapy – Behavioral addiction therapy can help individuals recognize harmful patterns, develop coping strategies, and regain control. 
- Financial Safeguards – Consider setting financial boundaries, such as limiting access to accounts or requiring multiple signatures for large transactions. 
- Support Groups – Engaging with support groups for those affected by scams or compulsive behaviors can provide encouragement and shared experiences. 
- Open Dialogue– Have honest, empathetic conversations expressing concern, rather than confrontation or ultimatums. 

If none of these measures work and the addiction puts them in serious danger, consulting an attorney about the POA process may be necessary. 

The Importance of Aftercare and Support

If power of attorney is granted, it’s crucial to provide continued support: 

- Respect Their Dignity – POA should not be used as a tool to control but rather to protect them while encouraging recovery. 
- Collaborate on Decisions – Where possible, involve them in discussions about financial and healthcare choices. 
- Therapeutic Intervention – Working with an addiction specialist can help them regain autonomy and gradually take back responsibility. 

Conclusion

Imposing power of attorney is never an easy decision, and it should only be pursued when a loved one’s addiction poses serious threats to their well-being. Families must balance legal protection with empathy, ensuring that interventions are supportive rather than punitive. Ultimately, the goal is not just to prevent harm but to guide the individual toward healing and independence.