Category Protection

Online fraud is on the rise in the United States, with Americans losing a record $16.6 billion to scams in 2024. A recent Pew Research Center study found that nearly three out of four adults have been targeted by some type of online scam, and almost half have seen actual fraudulent charges on their accounts. Experts warn that artificial intelligence (AI) is making these scams even more dangerous, helping criminals create more convincing fake emails, websites, and even voices. As economic uncertainty grows, so do people’s fears about their financial safety. Both political parties agree that the government and tech companies aren't doing enough to protect the public. Leaders in tech and cybersecurity are urging stronger protections to fight this new wave of high-tech fraud.

A recent report from July 2025 revealed a massive 340% jump in financial scams across the U.S. during the spring, driven by advanced tools like artificial intelligence (AI). Scammers are using deepfake videos, fake websites, and AI-powered chatbots to trick people into handing over money or personal information. Many of these scams spread through social media platforms like Facebook, making it harder for users to tell what’s real. One major threat, the “FunkSec” ransomware attack, marked the first time hackers used AI in a cyberattack. Thankfully, tech experts and law enforcement teamed up to help many victims recover their data without paying. This new wave of scams comes at a time of economic and political stress, which makes people even more vulnerable to financial tricks.

A recent study released in July 2025 shows that scams are becoming an even bigger problem across the U.S., especially with the rise of online banking and digital communication. Around 77 million Americans have lost money to scams over the past five years. That's about 3 out of every 10 adults. The study found that scammers are using more advanced and convincing tricks, pretending to be businesses or government programs to steal people’s money. Many people are being targeted while they’re looking for help—like financial relief, rebates, or job support—which makes them more vulnerable. In 2024 alone, scams accounted for 27% of all banking fraud losses, more than double the amount from the year before. This shows how quickly scammers are taking advantage of today’s tough economy and people’s financial stress.

As the U.S. healthcare system faces rising costs and big changes due to shifting government policies and a shaky global economy, scammers are taking advantage of the confusion. According to the FBI, more people are getting fake emails, phone calls, and text messages that pretend to be from hospitals, insurance companies, or government programs like Medicare. These messages often use urgent language to trick people into giving away personal information, such as medical records or bank account details. Scammers may promise fake refunds or ask for emergency “verifications” to get sensitive data. With so much uncertainty around healthcare right now, it’s easier than ever for these frauds to fool people.

Scams and online hacks are becoming more common as criminals use smarter tricks to steal money and personal information. One major scam is called the "border package scam," where someone pretends to be a U.S. Customs or law enforcement officer. They call or send messages claiming a suspicious package tied to the victim contains illegal items, like drugs or fake money. The goal is to scare people into giving away private information or paying money through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers, which are hard to trace. Another growing threat is phishing, especially fake Microsoft security alerts. These emails look real and may say there's a problem with your account. When you click the link, it takes you to a fake login page that steals your credentials. These scams work well because they use trusted names and websites, making it easier to trick people.

During the 2024-25 tax season, there has been a big increase in phishing scams aimed at people waiting for their tax refunds. Scammers are sending fake emails that look like they’re from the IRS, using real-looking logos and messages about “manual verification” for refunds over $25,000. These emails often link to fake websites that try to steal personal information like passwords and bank account numbers. With the economy uncertain and many people relying on tax refunds, scammers are taking advantage of people’s anxiety and hope for extra cash. The government is warning everyone to stay alert and never click on suspicious links or share private information online.