New research by the AARP shows fraud is a widespread and growing concern. Nearly 4 in 10 U.S. adults—about 103 million people—have already experienced fraud, and an estimated 159 million are worried about becoming victims.
A little under one-third (30%) of adults says their biggest fear is being targeted themselves, followed by losing money with no way to recover it (21%) and seeing a loved one victimized (15%). These concerns highlight both the financial and emotional toll of these crimes and reflect how pervasive and personal the threat has become.
The report also finds that 9 in 10 Americans agree that fraud can happen to anyone. 1 in 6 adults say they answer calls (11%) or respond to texts (5%) from unknown contacts and roughly half download free apps and take online quizzes on social media that can expose personal data. Gaps in digital security also persist, including password reuse, limited use of private virtual networks on public Wi-Fi, and low adoption of multifactor authentication.
AARP Florida is also one of more than a dozen states to recently pass legislation regulating virtual currency kiosks – often used by criminals as a payment method in scams. If approved by Governor DeSantis, the legislation will add important safeguards for Floridians using virtual currency kiosks. Kiosk operators will be required to register with the state, clearly warn users about fraud, and provide detailed receipts to customers. The legislation will also limit daily transaction amounts and guarantee a full refund for a customer’s first fraudulent transaction when timely reported as fraud –helping protect the financial security of older adults targeted in cryptocurrency-related scams.
“Criminals are persistent, and awareness alone won’t stop them,” said Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida State Director. “That’s why AARP is active in Florida communities—providing practical tools, trusted guidance, and support so people can better protect themselves and their loved ones.”
