The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released its findings on reported internet fraud in 2014. The study shows over USD 800 million (EUR 721 million) in losses. However, other data may put the figure at USD 3.5 billion (EUR 3.15 billion) in stolen funds. The report claims people looking for romance online and people divulging too much information on social media were the top targets for fraud.
Analyst comment:
The FBI reports romance scams being the most common in 2014 and women were targeted most. Many of the targeted women were scammed by being told they were talking to U.S. soldiers overseas.
Pinkerton advises client to use caution when putting content on social media, never respond to unsolicited email, phone calls or mail requesting personal information and never click on email links, go to the official website of the business or group and start there.
