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Consumers lost $2.1 billion to social media scams in 2025, FTC reports
In 2025, U.S. consumers lost $2.1 billion to social media scams, according to the FTC. Scams originated mostly from platforms like Facebook, leading to higher losses than other methods. The most common scams included shopping and investment schemes, with romance scams also on the rise. The FTC emphasizes user vigilance and suggests protective measures against these scams.
Key points
- Americans lost $2.1 billion to social media scams in 2025, an increase of eightfold.
- 30% of reported scams began on social media, with Facebook being the primary platform.
- Shopping scams were the most common, with over 40% of losses linked to advertised items.
- Investment scams amounted to $1.1 billion in losses, often initiated through ads.
- Nearly 60% of romance-related scams started on social media, tailored to victims' profiles.
Why it matters
- The rise in social media scams correlates with increasing digital engagement in 2025.
- Understanding scam trends is vital as remote work and online shopping become more prevalent.
- FTC's advocacy for consumer protection indicates ongoing regulatory attention to online platforms.
The FTC's report underscores the growing threat of social media scams, urging consumers to adopt protective practices while navigating an increasingly digital landscape.