Consumers lost $2.1 billion to social media scams in 2025, FTC reports | TechCrunch

"Americans lost $2.1 billion to social media scams in 2025, with losses increasing eightfold compared to previous years. Social media scams resulted in higher losses than any other method used by scammers."

"Nearly 30% of people who reported losing money to scams said the schemes began on social media, with Facebook being the most reported platform for losses, followed by WhatsApp and Instagram."

"Shopping scams were the most reported type of social media scam, with over 40% of victims ordering items from ads that led to unfamiliar or fake websites, including well-known brands."

"Investment scams, often initiated through ads or posts, led to $1.1 billion in losses, while nearly 60% of romance scam victims reported that their scams started on social media platforms."

In 2025, Americans lost $2.1 billion to social media scams, with losses increasing eightfold. Nearly 30% of scam victims reported that the scams began on social media, primarily Facebook. Shopping scams were the most common, with over 40% of victims ordering items from ads that led to fake websites. Investment schemes also contributed significantly to losses, totaling $1.1 billion. Additionally, 60% of romance scam victims reported that their scams originated on social media. The FTC recommends users limit post visibility and be cautious with online interactions to protect against scams.

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