Imposter scams top FTC fraud reports for fifth year, driving $3.5 billion in losses as total fraud hits record $15.9 billion
By
Sarah Agostino
Summary
Imposter scams remained the top fraud category reported to the FTC for the fifth consecutive year in 2025, causing $3.5 billion in losses. Total fraud losses hit a record $15.9 billion, a 27% increase from 2024 and a 430% rise since 2020. While median losses are around $700, a small number of victims lost high six-figure amounts or over $1 million. The surge is driven by a sharp increase in consumers reporting scams.
Source
bskyImposter scams top FTC fraud reports for fifth year, driving $3.5 billion in losses as total fraud hits record $15.9 billioncnbc.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledThe median loss [of $700] is on the lower side but there is a very small percentage of consumers who are losing high six figures and up
There are definitely some consumers who have lost over $1 million
Losses driven by scams costing $100,000 or more
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