Record $3.5 Billion Lost to Imposter Scams in 2025

In 2025, Americans lost $3.5 billion to imposter scams, a nearly 20% increase from the previous year, according to the FTC. This type of fraud has been the most reported for nine consecutive years, with over 1 million reports filed. Scammers impersonated government agencies, banks, and even romantic partners, exploiting trust to defraud victims. Notably, government impersonation scams surged by 40%, with fake toll payment messages being a significant contributor. Social media emerged as the most effective vector for these scams, accounting for $2.1 billion in losses. Overall, total reported fraud losses reached $16 billion in 2025, marking a 25% increase from 2024. The FTC has initiated enforcement actions against various impersonation schemes and continues to combat this growing threat.

Key Points: • Americans lost $3.5 billion to imposter scams in 2025, a 20% increase from 2024. • Imposter scams were the most reported fraud type, with over 1 million reports filed. • Social media was the leading attack vector, contributing $2.1 billion in losses.