Americans Lost $20.9 Billion to Internet Scams in 2025, FBI Data Shows

1-Minute Brief

The surge in internet scams highlights rising risks for consumers and the need for increased digital vigilance.

Key Facts

• Americans lost a record $20.9 billion to internet scams in 2025, according to FBI data.
• Social media fraud costs in 2025 were eight times higher than in 2020.
• Romance scams are among the types of internet fraud affecting Americans.
• An adviser described a client involved in a romance scam as seeming like they were 'talking to a robot.'
• The FBI provided the data on internet scam losses.

What Happened

FBI data indicates that Americans lost $20.9 billion to internet scams in 2025, with significant increases in social media fraud and reports of romance scams.

Why It Matters

The sharp rise in internet scam losses suggests growing threats to personal finances and underscores the importance of public awareness and preventive measures.

What's Next

Authorities and financial advisers may focus on educating the public about online fraud risks and strategies to prevent scams, particularly targeting vulnerable groups.