Social Media Scams Cost Americans $2.1 Billion in 2025
A staggering $2.1 billion was lost to social media scams in 2025, according to the FTC. Discover how these scams evolved and what you can do to protect yourself.
The Rise of Social Media Scams
In 2025, Americans faced an alarming increase in social media scams, with losses skyrocketing eightfold compared to previous years. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that nearly 30% of scam victims traced their losses back to social media platforms, primarily Facebook, which accounted for the highest financial losses.
- •Key statistics from the FTC report include:
- •Over 40% of victims lost money through shopping scams.
- •Investment schemes led to $1.1 billion in losses.
- •Nearly 60% of romance scam victims reported initial contact via social media.
These scams often lure users with enticing ads or friendly interactions, only to lead them to fake websites or fraudulent investment platforms. The FTC recommends several protective measures, such as limiting post visibility and thoroughly researching companies before making purchases. By staying informed and cautious, users can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these scams.