Social Media Scams Cost Americans $2.1 Billion in 2025

The FTC says Americans lost $2.1 billion to scams that started on social media in 2025, an eightfold jump since 2020.

Facebook was the largest source of reported losses, with WhatsApp and Instagram also ranking among the biggest platforms.

Investment scams caused the most financial damage, while shopping scams were the most commonly reported.

The report underscores how social platforms have become a major fraud channel, raising pressure for stronger user caution and platform oversight.