Where do scams start? What the FTC's 2025 data shows
Last updated October 24, 2026
In 2025, nearly 30% of people who reported losing money to a scam told the FTC it started on social media, with reported losses of $2.1 billion. Phone calls ranked second after social media for people 80 and over. Scams start in many places, so check any unexpected contact before you act.
Get Ms. Number on the App StoreWhat the FTC reported
In April 2026 the Federal Trade Commission said social media scams produced far more in losses, an eightfold increase since 2020, than any other contact method. All age groups except those 80 and over reported losing more money to scams that started on social media than any other contact method. For those 80 and over, social media ranked second after phone calls.
Types on social media
Investment scams had the largest losses at $1.1 billion. Shopping scams were the most reported. Nearly 60% of people who reported losing money to a romance scam in 2025 said it started on a social media platform.
What it means for your phone
A scam can begin on social media and move to texts or calls, or the other way. If someone asks you to move to another app or phone number quickly, treat it as a warning.
A simple check
Before you answer or reply, search the number, read the community reports and verify through a number or website you already know.
Questions
Where do most scams start?
In 2025, nearly 30% of people who lost money said social media, per the FTC.
How much was lost to social media scams?
The FTC reported $2.1 billion in 2025.
Are phone scams going away?
No. Calls ranked second for people 80 and over.
What should I do with an unknown number?
Search it, read the reports and do not call back.
Where do I report a scam?
At ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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