Popular Scams to Watch for in 2025

As we navigate through 2025, it's crucial to stay vigilant against the ever-evolving tactics of scammers. With advancements in technology, scammers are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential to be aware of the latest scams to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are some of the top scams to watch out for in 2025, based on insights from AARP.

1. AI-Powered Scams

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized many industries, but unfortunately, it has also provided scammers with new tools to deceive people. AI-powered scams are on the rise, with criminals using AI to create convincing phishing emails, deepfake videos, and fake voices. These scams can be incredibly difficult to detect, making them particularly dangerous. Kathy Stokes, AARP’s director of fraud prevention programs, says We’re entering an “industrial revolution for fraud criminals. AI opens endless possibilities and, unfortunately, endless victims and losses. Read more at AI Fuels New, Frighteningly Effective Scams.

2. Imposter Scams

Imposter scams continue to be a significant threat in 2025. Scammers often pose as trusted individuals, such as friends, relatives, celebrities, or government officials, to trick victims into providing personal information or money. Usually, government imposter scams will be threatening while celebrity scams advertise fake products. With the advent of more effective AI, these scams have become even more convincing, using deepfake technology to create realistic audio and video impersonations. Remember that just because ads appear on reputable platforms it doesn’t mean they’re genuine.

3. Employment Scams

Employment scams have seen a significant increase, targeting job seekers with fake job offers and recruitment pitches. Scammers often post phony ads on job sites or send emails claiming to offer employment. Victims are tricked into providing personal information or paying for training and certifications that don't exist. In some cases, scammers send fake checks as bonuses and ask for money back due to "overpayment". During the application process, companies only need basic information — not your Social Security number or financial information. And if you’re promised a job but required to pay money, it’s a scam.

4. Tech Support Scams

Consumers age 60 and older are five times more likely than their younger counterparts to lose money to tech support scams, which cost older Americans more $175 million in 2023. Tech support scams remain prevalent, with scammers posing as tech support representatives from well-known companies. They claim that your computer has a virus or technical issue and offer to fix it for a fee. In reality, they gain remote access to your computer, steal personal information, and demand payment for unnecessary services.

5. Romance Scams

Romance scams continue to exploit people's emotions, particularly targeting older adults. Scammers create fake profiles on dating sites and social media platforms, building relationships with victims to gain their trust. Once trust is established, they ask for money, often claiming to need it for emergencies or travel expenses. Be wary of love professed early, ask for money, or suggest contacting some other way.

6. Cryptocurrency Scams

Cryptocurrency scams have surged, especially with the price of Bitcoin reaching $100,000 in December 2024. While this has been good for savvy investors, it has also lured novices into scams with huge potential losses. In 2023, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received nearly 9,000 cryptocurrency complaints from people aged 50-59, resulting in losses exceeding $900 million. For those aged 60 and older, the number of complaints was nearly 17,000 with losses of $1.6 billion. Scammers use dating apps, messaging apps, social media, and other communications to build trust and share their “expertise” on investments, promising large returns with little risk. They show fake profit reports to encourage more investment and charge outrageous fees when victims try to withdraw funds, often vanishing before the victims receive their money.

How to Protect Yourself

• Stay Informed:  Look up a scam in AARP’s Fraud Resource Center, with dozens of tip sheets on how to recognize and avoid common scams, including videos that break down how scams work You can see or report scams in your area with our Scam-Tracking Map. Get regular updates on the latest scams by signing up for biweekly Watchdog Alerts or text FWN to 50757 to receive text alerts.
• Verify Identities: Always verify the identity of individuals who contact you, especially if they ask for personal information or money.
• Be Skeptical: Trust your inner skeptic.  Be cautious of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or messages. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Use Strong Passwords: Protect your online accounts with strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
• If You Encounter A Scam: Report it to the appropriate authorities to help prevent others from falling victim and call the AARP Fraud Watch Network^TM helpline 8770908-3360, a free resource available to anyone. We also offer online support sessions for further emotional support.

Staying informed and vigilant can help protect yourself and your loved ones from falling prey to these sophisticated scams. For more information on the latest scams and how to protect yourself, visit the AARP Scam you & Fraud page. Remember, if you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Stay safe and stay informed!


Sources:
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/ai-scams/
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/biggest-scams-2025/
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/
Https://www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork