Scam reports rose sharply to 2.6 million in 2024

Scammers can trick anyone into giving away money or personal information. Experts say they use psychological tactics to catch people off guard and exploit human behavior. In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission recorded 2.6 million fraud reports, resulting in losses of $12.5 billion. This marked a big increase from $2.5 billion lost in 2023. Many Americans have been targeted by scams, often without reporting it due to embarrassment. With the rise of fraudulent messages, more people are at risk. Scammers often strike when victims are vulnerable. For example, a busy workday may lead someone to quickly respond to an email from what they think is their boss. However, they may be sending sensitive information to a fraudster. Experts note that fatigue or distraction can impair our thinking, making people more susceptible to scams. Another tactic used by scammers is the “truth bias.” This is a tendency in humans to believe things said by others. People usually tell the truth, so it feels natural to accept what is said. Scammers manipulate this by appearing as trusted figures, such as bank officials or even celebrities, to build credibility. Scammers also exploit our desire to be polite. When pressured, some people may feel uncomfortable questioning suspicious requests. This can lead them to comply too quickly. Creating urgency is another common tactic. Scammers might insist immediate action is necessary to avoid losing money, pushing victims to make hasty decisions. To protect themselves, experts suggest various strategies. For example, if something seems off, it's wise to discuss it with a friend. Always verify the source of messages and be suspicious of deals that seem too good to be true. Strengthening online security, like enabling two-factor authentication, is also recommended. Scams can affect anyone, and falling for one does not mean a person is foolish. Recognizing the risk and talking openly about experiences can help others avoid becoming victims.