Five Fraud Stats From 2025
In the past 12 months, data point after data point showed that the issue of fraud has only gotten worse. As we begin the new year, here are five statistics on scams that caught our eye.
- In one year, Americans lost an estimated $196 billion to fraud
Consumers reported losing $12.5 billion to scams in 2024 (the latest full year of data available). However, law enforcement agencies believe that only 2%-6.7% of victims report their losses. After accounting for underreporting, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimated that in just one year, Americans lost $196 billion to scammers.
- In five years, scam losses increased 558%
Last year, the FTC released data showing annual reported losses to fraud reached a record $12.5 billion. While a sobering figure on its own, it represents a 558% increase from just five years earlier, when reported losses totaled $1.9 billion.
- The youngest individuals were more than twice as likely to have reported fraud losses compared to the oldest individuals
FTC data showed that 51% of complaints from consumers 19 and younger disclosed losing money to a scam, compared to just 21% of complaints from those 80 and older. While younger individuals are more likely to lose money, they also typically have less cash to lose. The median amount lost for those 19 and younger was $189, compared to $1,650 for individuals 80 and older.
- Approximately 41% of adults have been victims of fraud
An AARP survey found that 41% of respondents experienced having their money or sensitive information stolen and used fraudulently. Of those, only 21% reported the crime to local law enforcement.
- Cryptocurrency losses increased 66%
AARP estimated that in just one year, cryptocurrency fraud in the United States resulted in $9.3 billion in losses—a 66% increase from the previous year. Among those who invested in cryptocurrency, approximately 15% found the investment to be a scam. This trend was reflected in Fraud.org’s data as well, where the median reported loss to cryptocurrency and investment schemes reached $30,000.
Keep an eye out for new scam stats in Fraud.org’s Top Ten Scams report for 2025, which will be published next month.
Reporting Scams
If you suspect you’ve encountered a scam:
- File a complaint at Fraud.org: We will share your complaint with our network of consumer protection agencies and law enforcement partners.
- Report it to the FBI: Use the IC3.gov website to report directly to the agency.
- Inform the FTC: File a complaint at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
