FBI Philadelphia Warns of Rising Elder Fraud Losses as Americans Lose Billions to Scammers

PHILADELPHIA — The FBI Philadelphia Field Office is highlighting the growing threat of elder fraud and financial exploitation in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed annually on June 15.

According to the FBI, older Americans continue to be targeted by a wide range of fraud schemes that can result in devastating financial losses. Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. Federal investigators say scammers often focus on older adults because they may possess retirement savings, investment accounts, home equity, or other accumulated assets built over a lifetime.

Data released in the FBI’s 2025 Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Elder Fraud Report shows the bureau received more than 200,000 complaints from victims age 60 and older, resulting in approximately $7.7 billion in reported losses nationwide.

The impact has been significant across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. During the reporting period, Pennsylvania residents submitted more than 30,000 complaints to the FBI, with estimated losses exceeding $537 million. New Jersey residents reported more than 20,000 complaints, totaling approximately $660 million in losses.

FBI Philadelphia officials identified phishing and spoofing scams, technology support fraud, customer support impersonation schemes, and investment scams as some of the most common threats affecting residents throughout the region.

“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day serves as an important reminder of the harm fraud and exploitation can cause to older Americans,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, special agent in charge of FBI Philadelphia. “Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to steal personal information, money, or both. We encourage seniors and their loved ones to remain vigilant, verify unfamiliar requests, and report suspicious activity. Through education, outreach, and enforcement, FBI Philadelphia is committed to protecting our communities and the savings older Americans have worked a lifetime to build.”

Federal officials warn that many fraud schemes rely on creating fear, panic, or urgency to pressure victims into making immediate financial decisions. Criminals frequently impersonate government agencies, financial institutions, technical support representatives, businesses, or even family members to gain access to personal information or funds.

The FBI encourages older adults and their families to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited phone calls, emails, text messages, or requests for money. Investigators recommend avoiding pressure tactics, independently verifying requests, refusing to provide sensitive personal information to unknown individuals, and never sending gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, checks, or cash to unverified recipients.

Officials also advise maintaining updated antivirus software, installing security updates promptly, and exercising caution when opening email attachments or downloading files from unfamiliar sources.

The Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative continues to coordinate federal efforts aimed at combating elder abuse, neglect, financial fraud, and scams targeting senior citizens throughout the United States. The FBI also maintains Victim Specialist programs designed to help victims access resources and support services while navigating the criminal justice process.

Anyone who believes they may have been the victim of elder fraud is encouraged to contact FBI Philadelphia at (215) 418-4000 or submit information through the FBI’s online tip portal at tips.fbi.gov. Complaints can also be filed through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.

Additional elder fraud prevention resources are available through the FBI’s elder fraud information page:

https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/elder-fraud

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