Following the release of a new national AARP fraud survey that shows many adults remain exposed to fraud despite high awareness and concern, AARP Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General are calling on residents to strengthen their defenses against scams and fraud.
The survey – based on responses from nearly 1,700 adults, age 18 years of age and older – found that fraud continues to affect millions of Americans. Respondents cite their top worries about fraud are being victimized, having no way to recover stolen funds, and the rapid growth and evolution of scams. Four in ten adults reported they had money stolen due to fraud or had sensitive information stolen and used fraudulently.
While many victims take action after experiencing fraud, important gaps remain. Nearly three-quarters – 73 percent – reported contacting their financial institution, but only one-quarter (25 percent) reported the crime to law enforcement or federal authorities.
Americans lose more than $20 billion a year to scammers, and Pennsylvanians are no exception. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), Pennsylvania ranked sixth nationwide for total fraud complaints, with more than 31,000 reports filed, and seventh for financial losses, totaling more than $537 million. These figures place Pennsylvania among the nation’s most impacted states, alongside larger states like California, Texas and Florida.
Scammers commonly use email, robocalls, and other unsolicited contacts to gain access to money, personal information, account passwords, or computer and phone devices. They often pose as government officials, distressed family members, or other trusted figures. Increasingly these criminals are using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technology – to create convincing video and voice impersonations. Many scams rely on urgency, such as claims that a loved one is in immediate danger and action must be taken right away.
AARP Pennsylvania and Attorney General Sunday are urging residents to be especially cautious of requests involving cryptocurrency kiosks – also known as crypto or bitcoin ATMs – particularly when directed to send funds to private wallets or unfamiliar platforms.
“Fraud can happen to anyone, and this research shows that awareness alone is not enough,” said Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania State Director. “Education gives people practical steps they can take right now – knowing when not to engage, securing their devices, and recognizing the warning signs of a scam. Working together, we can help Pennsylvanians stay informed and reduce their risk.”
“One of the core functions of the Office of Attorney General is protecting Pennsylvania consumers. It’s critical that Pennsylvanians understand the resources available to them — whether making informed purchases or reporting suspected fraud,” Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday said. “My Office, in partnership with organizations like AARP, is committed to equipping residents with the tools they need to stay vigilant and protect their money and personal information.”
Pennsylvanians are encouraged to talk openly about fraud, share information with family and friends, and seek out trusted resources focused on prevention and safety. The survey underscores that reducing fraud risk requires informed individuals, strong community outreach, and ongoing collaboration among consumer advocates and public officials.
Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 1-877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Pennsylvania Fraud Resource Page at aarp.org/pafraud.
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