New data from Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shows the total number of fraud and related fraudulent crime reports in 2024.
Investment fraud lawyers at Investor Loss Center examined data of the most in Florida and the U.S.
Top types of fraud in the US in 2024
Ranking third with 60,254 cases, business and job opportunity scams prey on those seeking new income sources or career growth. Victims are lured by the promise of lucrative opportunities, only to pay upfront fees for nonexistent jobs or investment schemes. These scams have been particularly effective recently, as more individuals search for flexible or remote work.
Imposter Scams was at the top of the list. Followed by online shopping and negative reviews. 3rd was business and job opportunities. Then, investment scams. It works when a scam artist offers high returns with minimal risk, drawing in individuals seeking financial growth. Common tactics include pyramid schemes and high-yield investment programs, ultimately leading to substantial financial losses.
Internet service fraud normally occurs through false advertisements or fake tech support schemes. Scammers may pose as service providers offering discounted internet plans or threaten disconnection unless immediate payment is made, impacting households and businesses alike.
Prize and sweepstakes fraud is another widely reported issue. Victims are contacted with news of winning a prize or lottery, but to claim it, they must pay fees or provide personal details. These scams often target vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, eager to receive unexpected winnings.
Telephone and mobile service scams typically involve fraudsters posing as phone service providers to deceive individuals into making payments or sharing personal data. These scams exploit the reliance on mobile devices, often using urgent threats of service disconnection.
Health care fraud cases. Fraudsters target individuals seeking medical treatments or affordable care options, offering fake services or charging for unnecessary procedures. This type of fraud leads to financial loss and can endanger health and well-being.
Travel-related scams have increased. Fraudsters capitalize on the desire for affordable vacations or timeshare investments, offering too-good-to-be-true deals that cost consumers without delivering the promised services.
Completing the top ten mortgage foreclosure relief and debt management scams targeting individuals facing financial hardship, these scams promise to alleviate debt or prevent foreclosure for a fee, ultimately exacerbating victims’ financial struggles.
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