The FBI recently reported that Americans lost a record-breaking $10.3 billion in online scams in 2022. This is a staggering amount of money and a huge increase from the $3.5 billion reported in 2021. This alarming trend is indicative of the growing sophistication of online scammers and the need for increased vigilance when using the internet.
The FBI has identified a variety of scams that are responsible for the majority of these losses. The most common type of scam is phishing, which involves sending fraudulent emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate companies or organizations. These emails often contain links to malicious websites or attachments that can install malware on a victim’s computer. Other common scams include romance scams, business email compromise, and investment fraud.
The FBI has urged Americans to be aware of the risks associated with online activities and to take steps to protect themselves. This includes being cautious when clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources, avoiding giving out personal information, and using strong passwords and two-factor authentication when possible. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the warning signs of a scam, such as requests for money or personal information, promises of guaranteed returns on investments, and offers that seem too good to be true.
The FBI has also encouraged victims of online scams to report their experiences to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The IC3 collects data on internet-facilitated crimes and works with law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible.
It is clear that online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and widespread, and it is essential that Americans take steps to protect themselves from becoming victims. By being aware of the risks associated with online activities and taking the necessary precautions, Americans can help protect themselves from becoming victims of these scams and help reduce the amount of money lost each year.
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- Source: Plato Data Intelligence: PlatoAiStream