Cybercrime on the Rise: Most Americans Report Scam Attempts

Cybercrime is at an all-time high, with a startling 90% of Americans reporting they were targeted by digital scams over the past year. According to F-Secure’s U.S. Scam Intelligence & Impact Report, one in four individuals believes they fell victim, and three in ten reported financial losses. The Global Anti-Scam Alliance revealed that U.S. victims lost an average of $2,600 each, contributing to a total of $159 billion in scam-related losses.

The frequency of these attacks is rising, with 66% of survey respondents encountering scams at least monthly. Americans are also increasingly concerned about their online safety, with seven in ten expressing worry. A significant number (40%) said they are experiencing more scam attempts now than last year, and over half anticipate being targeted in the future.

AI has introduced new risks, enabling cybercriminals to fabricate realistic fake voices, images, and videos using personal data shared online. Laura Kankaala, F-Secure’s head of Threat Intelligence, emphasized the need for combined efforts in technology, education, and personal vigilance to combat these threats.

Interestingly, the report shows a high level of trust in service providers, with 81% of respondents relying on their broadband operators and 71% on their insurance companies for digital protection. However, the responsibility ultimately falls on individuals to stay informed and proactive in safeguarding their data.