09/09/2026
đ¨ Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and the financial toll is growing.
Americans reported a record $15.9 billion in scam losses last year, up 25% from the year before. And the real number may be much higher, since many victims never report what happened.
â ď¸ The problem is also widespread: 98% of Americans surveyed said they believe scammers have targeted them, and 3 in 10 said theyâve personally lost money or information.
Recovering stolen funds can be difficult, especially when someone is tricked into authorizing a payment. Victims may also be targeted again by criminals claiming they can recover the original loss for a fee.
đ If someone contacts you unexpectedly about money, an investment, or recovering funds youâve already lost, slow down before sending anything. Verify who youâre dealing with through a trusted source, and be especially cautious if thereâs pressure to act quickly.
Virtually every American has been targeted by scammers in some way, exclusive new polling data shows.