Florida residents reported nearly $1.6 billion in internet-crime losses in 2025, as scammers increasingly targeted victims through fake government calls, cryptocurrency investments, utility-payment threats, and fraudulent storm-repair offers.
Fraudsters are using text messages, spoofed phone numbers, social media advertisements, and impersonation tactics to pressure people into sending money. Florida’s large retiree population, frequent hurricanes, and active real estate and investment markets create opportunities for scammers to exploit residents.
According to WLRN, Floridians aged 60 and older filed more than 17,000 internet-crime complaints in 2025, reporting nearly $710 million in losses.
Florida Reports Billions in Fraud Losses
Florida remains among the states experiencing substantial reported financial losses from internet crime and fraud. Data cited in state-by-state scam statistics estimated that Floridians reported approximately $1.16 billion in fraud losses to the Federal Trade Commission in 2025, with a median reported loss of $500.
These figures measure different categories of reported crime and should not be combined. However, they demonstrate the financial risks facing residents across the state.
Although older adults account for significant losses, younger Floridians are also being targeted through online investment opportunities, cryptocurrency schemes, and misleading advertisements.
Utility and Jury-Duty Scams Threaten Victims
One common scam involves callers pretending to represent utility providers or internet companies. Victims are told their electricity or internet service will be disconnected unless they make an immediate payment.
In one reported case, a victim lost $700 after receiving a fraudulent call. Residents should hang up and contact the company using a verified number from its official website or a recent bill.
Scammers also impersonate police officers and court officials, claiming that victims missed jury duty or have outstanding warrants. They may threaten arrest unless payment is made immediately.
Requests for gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards are major warning signs. Residents should independently verify claims with the relevant court or law-enforcement agency.
Cryptocurrency Scams Target Younger Adults
Cryptocurrency fraud continues to cause financial losses across Florida. According to ClickOrlando, a victim in Apopka reportedly lost more than $50,000 in a cryptocurrency-related scam.
Fraudsters may promise guaranteed investment returns or convince victims to transfer money through cryptocurrency kiosks. Once funds reach a scammer-controlled wallet, recovering the money can be difficult.
Younger residents are also affected. Florida Trend reported that Floridians aged 20 to 29 filed 10,456 fraud complaints in 2025, up from 8,612 in 2024. Reported losses among this age group exceeded $12.9 million.
Residents should avoid unsolicited investment offers, unrealistic profit promises, and demands to move money quickly.
Hurricane Repair Scams Put Homeowners at Risk
After severe weather, scammers may pose as contractors, insurance representatives, or government assistance workers. They often offer urgent repairs or claim to coordinate with insurance companies.
Some demand large upfront payments before beginning work, while others pressure homeowners into signing contracts without reviewing the terms.
Florida residents should verify contractor credentials, obtain written estimates, and confirm insurance-related claims independently. Suspicious repair offers and possible price gouging can be reported to the Florida Attorney General’s Office.
How Floridians Can Protect Themselves
Residents can reduce their risk by following several precautions:
- Verify unexpected calls: Contact companies and government agencies through their official websites.
- Avoid unusual payments: Never pay unexpected demands with gift cards or cryptocurrency.
- Question urgent threats: Independently check claims involving arrest, disconnected services, or emergency repairs.
- Protect devices: Never give unknown callers remote access to your computer or phone.
- Research investments: Be skeptical of guaranteed returns and pressure to transfer funds.
- Discuss suspicious messages: Talk with family members before sending money in response to unexpected requests.
Residents who suspect fraud can contact the Florida Attorney General’s Office at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM or visit the official website. Internet-crime complaints can also be submitted through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Florida’s reported internet-crime losses highlight the importance of recognizing warning signs and verifying payment requests before acting. Whether a scam involves a utility bill, court notice, investment offer, or storm repair, taking time to confirm the facts can help residents avoid costly mistakes.
