Top 5 Fraud Trends to Be Aware Of

National Safer Internet Day is Feb. 10, and Frontier Bank is encouraging customers to strengthen online habits and stay alert to the rising number of digital scams. Fraud activity continues to climb nationwide. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), consumers reported more than $12.5 billion in losses in 2024 – a 25% increase from the prior year.

Investment scams had the highest monetary loss in 2024 with $5.7 billion in losses, followed by $2.9 billion lost to imposter scams. Consumers also lost more money through bank transfers and cryptocurrency than all other payment methods combined. These trends continue to rise, with scammers adopting more aggressive tactics, including artificial intelligence (AI)-generated impersonation, social media-based deception and more.

Here are the top five fraud categories reported in 2025, based on Federal Trade Commission data.

1. Imposter scams – 516,724 reports

   Imposter scams remain the most reported fraud type in the country. Scammers continue posing as banks, government agencies, family members or well-known companies, now using AI-generated voices, spoofed phone numbers or convincing emails. These scams pressure people to act quickly, send money or share account information. Customers should verify any unexpected request by contacting the organization directly using a verified phone number.

2. Online shopping and negative reviews – 193,020 reports

   Online shopping scams continue to grow, driven by fraudulent ads on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other platforms. In August 2025, the FTC warned consumers about “big discount” social media ads impersonating real brands, which often link to fake websites designed to steal money or personal information. Shoppers may receive a counterfeit product or nothing at all.
   To stay safe, research the seller, compare prices and use a credit card for purchases. Scammers often push customers toward gift cards, wire transfers, payment apps, or cryptocurrency – all red flags.

3. Internet services – 118,071 reports

   These scams include fake tech-support calls, phony antivirus subscriptions, and pop-up warnings claiming your device is compromised. Scammers often request remote access or immediate payment. Avoid clicking on pop-ups and contact service providers using verified customer service numbers.

4. Business and job opportunities – 75,364 reports

   Scammers continue targeting people searching for jobs or supplemental income. Fake job postings, business “starter kits,” and work-from-home offers often require upfront payment or ask applicants to transfer money during the “hiring process.” Legitimate employers never ask new hires to pay fees or move funds for them.

5. Investment-related scams – 66,703 reports

   Investment scams remain one of the most expensive fraud categories. High-pressure cryptocurrency schemes, fake trading platforms and AI-driven “advisors” continue to promise guaranteed returns. If an investment sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Independent verification is critical.