Millennials Are Getting Scammed More Than You Think

All the latest surveys and reports are telling the same story: As smart as they are, Millennials are scammed more than ever before and it’s only going to get worse. Con artists are scamming and defrauding more people out of more money, year after year. On top of that, it’s not one age group or generation that’s the primary target any more, it’s everyone. And kids are leading the way, as they seem to be easy prey for scammers . Take a look: That’s not necessarily how it was 50 years ago, before the internet. Back then, senior citizens were likely the most targeted generation by scammers, who went after their pension checks or devised elaborate schemes to swindle them or get them to donate to charities. Today, it’s a different story, made that way by the all the latest technologies since then. In short, the internet has made every generation smarter and more connected, some to a greater degree than others. And while the generations are still primarily defined by attitudes and behavior, they all share one thing in common—they’re all targets for scams. And just because somebody maybe more technically savvy and adept, it doesn’t mean they’re safer. The latest statistics prove it. It’s also important to note that the report is based on reported losses to the Federal Trade Commission. It’s known that many who get scammed don’t report and/or file a complaint. Imagine what the numbers would be if all losses were reported. Many people who lose money to scams never file a complaint or report. If you fall victim to a scam, you should report it to the FTC by clicking here . The millennials and Gen Z are extremely tech-savvy and tech-comfortable. The latest innovations don’t worry them. They’re either interested or not, but don’t feel threatened. That’s part of the age group’s strength…and part of their downfall when it comes to con artists. It’s ironic, actually, that when Baby Boomers need help with new devices, programs or apps, they turn to their kids or younger coworkers for advice. Turns out, the younger crowd should be asking their older counterparts advice on how to stay out of trouble with con artists. Read this article on WhatIsMyIPAddress.com on how to avoid scams and be more scam-savvy. A study uncovered a surprising bit of information that revealed 23% of victims between the ages of 18 and 37 “engaged” with scammers and their pitch. Meaning, instead of sensing danger and breaking the connection, they continued the dialogue. As a group, 10% of those who started a dialogue with the scammers eventually lost money. It would be wrong to conclude that the younger generation is more gullible and that’s why they’re falling for scams in greater numbers these days. You could simply say they’re learning the hard way and learning fast—and there is some truth to that. But keep this in mind also. Again, remember that younger people are seeking different things online from those over 40. Their interests, likes, goals and pursuits are different and how they go about getting what they want takes a different path also. That’s a normal routine for most of the country. Scam victims discover too late that what seemed easy and inviting was a trap they simply walked right into. Check our article out on ways we don’t see a scam coming . It’s very eye opening. A report by Microsoft about online security revealed some news that, if not surprising, was a great reminder to anyone reading this article. The report discovered that 25% those who were scammed (or even attacked) online did not take steps to improve their security or line of defenses afterward. Perhaps they thought reporting the scam was the best thing (or the only thing) they needed to do. That’s not the case. Here’s what the security experts suggest you should do if you’ve been scammed : Here’s the takeaway from latest reports on scams. The Easy Prey podcast is hosted by Chris Parker, CEO of WhatIsMyIPAddress.com. You can learn why he started the Easy Prey podcast and website here . The Easy Prey podcast is designed to help you stay informed, avoid scams and fraud, and keep you safer online and in real life. Check it out!