The Pew Research Center's latest report, "Online Scams and Attacks in America Today," published on July 31, 2025, reveals a stark contrast between Americans' confidence in detecting online threats and their actual experiences. The study, based on a survey of 9,397 U.S. adults conducted in April 2025, found that a significant 73% of Americans have fallen victim to some form of online scam or attack. This widespread exposure occurs even as, according to the Center's findings, Americans generally "feel they are quite knowledgeable in how to detect online scams and attacks.
The financial toll of these cybercrimes is substantial, with the FBI reporting a record $16.6 billion in losses from online scams in 2024. Beyond financial impact, the report highlights the pervasive nature of attempted scams, with majorities of U.S. adults receiving scam phone calls (68%), emails (63%), or text messages (61%) at least weekly. These frequent attempts underscore the constant digital vigilance required from the public.
Despite a common perception that older adults are more vulnerable, the Pew study indicates that online scams affect all age groups, with individuals aged 18 to 29 being among the most frequent victims. Nearly one-third of respondents reported having their personal information hacked through various online accounts. Furthermore, 21% of those surveyed admitted to losing money as a direct result of an online scam or attack.
Cybersecurity experts note that online scams are evolving rapidly, incorporating advanced techniques such as artificial intelligence to create deepfakes and sophisticated phishing campaigns. This increasing complexity challenges even those who consider themselves well-informed about digital threats. The findings suggest a critical gap between self-assessed knowledge and the practical ability to navigate an increasingly deceptive online landscape, emphasizing the ongoing need for robust cybersecurity awareness initiatives.