(FTC) New data from the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel Network reveals that over a quarter (27.2%) of Florida ages 60-69 lost their funds due to fraud this year.
The most common scam categories that affect seniors in the state are business scammers, government scammers, and online shopping scams.
An older Florida American, ages 60 to 69, lost a significant $25,598,566 in scams this year, resulting in a loss of $800 per person.
In Florida, 60-69 Senior 60-69 looks at per report losses 34% higher than the national average.
The FTC says the most common scam in the state for all ages so far this year is business scammers. Many scammers target older people. Because they are likely to trust official sound calls and emails, and they could pressure them to act quickly when they think that communications come from a reputable organization.
Top scam subcategories for people aged 60-69 in Florida.
1. Business Im Poster
2. Government fraudster
3. Online shopping
4. Technical Support Scam
5. Other Investment and Investment Advice
Nationally, the risk of fraud decreases slightly as age increases, but those affected still experience significant losses. People ages 70 to 79 have seen 45,076 fraud reports so far this year, with 26% bringing stolen funds. For each consumer, this amounts to $994.
Al Alof, investment expert at Cryptocurrency Exchange Chicksx, says scammers know that older people are more trusted, unfamiliar with online platforms and purchases, or don’t know how sophisticated modern scam attempts are. Families and communities must openly discuss these risks and warning signs, thus preventing vulnerable individuals from being victimized.
“Summers also bring about increased risk, including sales on July 4th and increased travel and housing improvement projects, especially among retirees. Scammers may pose as well as famous retailers and take advantage of the trusted families of seniors who are obsessed with their summer plans,” Alof said.
