The Crypto Scam Epidemic: How Older Americans Are Falling Victim to $5. 6 Billion in Losses

The FBI's 2023 Cryptocurrency Fraud Report reveals a staggering $5. 6 billion in reported losses to cryptocurrency scams, with older Americans bearing the brunt of the damage. The majority of these scams, a whopping 53% increase from 2022, are pig butchering scams, where fraudsters build fake relationships with victims and convince them to invest in bogus cryptocurrency platforms. But what's driving this epidemic? Is it the promise of easy gains, the fear of missing out, or a lack of understanding about the technology? The FBI notes that cryptocurrency's widespread promotion has created opportunities for criminals to target unsuspecting investors, particularly those who are unfamiliar with the risks. Pig butchering scams are particularly insidious, often starting with a romantic or friendly relationship built over months. Victims are then convinced to invest more and more of their savings into the fake platform, with scammers using persuasive tactics to keep them in the dark. The average theft per victim is a staggering $5,000, with over $1. 6 billion lost by Americans 60 and older. But why do scammers target older Americans? It's not just because they hold more wealth, but also because they may be less familiar with newer technology like cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency kiosks, or "bitcoin ATMs," make it easy for scammers to get victims to send over money, often by sending them a QR code to scan and deposit cash. What can be done to stop these scams? Is it education, regulation, or law enforcement? The FBI's report highlights the need for consumers to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect themselves. But what about those who have already fallen victim? The AARP's fraud victim support director, Amy Nofziger, notes that while $5. 6 billion in losses is substantial, the true figure is likely much higher due to unreported cases.