In 2025, Americans fell victim to social media scams, losing $2.1 billion, as reported by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The agency indicates that losses due to social media scams have surged eight times and that these scams caused greater financial damage than any other means utilized by scammers to reach consumers.

Almost 30% of individuals who reported financial losses attributed them to scams that started on social media. More victims lost money from scams originating on Facebook than any other platform, with WhatsApp and Instagram following as distant second and third. Furthermore, the amount lost to scams on Facebook alone was significantly higher than that lost to text or email scams.

Data from the FTC reveals that social media scams come in various forms, with shopping scams being the most frequently reported type last year. Over 40% of those who lost money due to social media scams claimed they purchased an item they observed in an advertisement, with items ranging from apparel and cosmetics to car parts and even puppies. Many of these advertisements led consumers to unknown websites, while others directed them to counterfeit sites for well-known brands promising substantial discounts.

Another prevalent category of social media scams involves investment schemes that commence with advertisements or posts offering guidance on how to invest. Some scammers impersonate friendly advisors or create WhatsApp groups filled with fabricated testimonials. These investment frauds accounted for $1.1 billion in losses.

Moreover, nearly 60% of individuals who reported losing money in a romance scam in 2025 stated it began on a social media platform. Scammers often customize their pitches to align with an individual’s profile and later fabricate a crisis necessitating financial assistance. Alternatively, they may casually provide investment advice to draw victims onto a false investment platform.

The FTC recommends that users safeguard themselves against social media scams by restricting the audience for their posts and contacts, refraining from letting individuals they met online guide their investment choices, and thoroughly examining products before purchase by investigating the company and searching the name alongside the terms “scam” or “complaint.”