Fraud and scams can happen anywhere, but in some states, they’re far more common. Scammers thrive in places where they can easily exploit residents, whether it’s through identity theft, phishing schemes, or fake offers.
Let’s look at 17 states where you’re at the highest risk of falling victim to fraud and why you need to stay alert.
Florida
The Sunshine State is often called a scammer’s paradise. With its large retiree population, Medicare fraud and fake charity schemes targeting seniors are incredibly common. Tourists visiting cities like Miami and Orlando are often tricked into paying for counterfeit tickets or bogus vacation rentals.
Data shows that identity theft cases are reported here at alarming rates, often involving stolen credit card information or hacked accounts. Scammers take advantage of Florida’s mix of elderly residents and tourists, making vigilance a necessity for both locals and visitors.
California
In a state with such a massive population, it’s no surprise that scams are rampant. Cybercrime is a particular issue, with phishing emails and fake tech support calls targeting unsuspecting Californians. Wealthier areas like Silicon Valley see frequent investment scams, preying on people looking for quick returns.
The fast pace of life in urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco often leads people to let their guard down, making it easier for scammers to succeed. Staying skeptical and taking time to verify offers can save residents a lot of trouble.
Texas
Fraudsters thrive in the Lone Star State, especially after natural disasters when fake contractors appear out of nowhere. These scammers often promise quick repairs and disappear with down payments. Large cities like Houston and Dallas also see a high number of imposter scams, where fraudsters pose as IRS agents or bill collectors.
New York
The hustle and bustle of New York make it a prime target for fraud. Rental scams are rampant in the city, with fake listings tricking both locals and newcomers. Identity theft is also a significant problem, often involving stolen credit card details used to make fraudulent purchases.
In addition, job seekers are frequently lured by fake job postings that demand upfront fees or personal information.
Nevada
A high number of scams occur in Nevada, particularly in Las Vegas, where tourists are easy prey. Gambling scams, fake prize offers, and counterfeit goods are just some of the tactics used to trick visitors. Beyond the Strip, Nevada residents deal with frequent identity theft cases and phishing schemes.
The state’s hospitality-driven economy creates countless chances for fraudsters to con both visitors and locals. Being aware of your surroundings and cautious about too-good-to-be-true offers is essential in a place like Nevada.
Georgia
Scams in Georgia often start with a phone call. Imposters posing as IRS agents or tech support representatives regularly trick people into handing over personal information. Atlanta, as a major metropolitan hub, has its own challenges, including credit card skimming at gas stations and ATMs.
The state also sees its fair share of romance scams, where fraudsters use dating apps to build trust before asking for money. Georgia residents need to stay on high alert, especially when dealing with unsolicited calls or messages.
Illinois
The Windy City might be famous for its skyline, but it’s also a hotspot for fraud. Pyramid schemes and fake apartment listings are common in Chicago, targeting people looking for quick opportunities or affordable housing. Across the state, residents report numerous cases of identity theft, with scammers opening fake accounts or making unauthorized purchases.
North Carolina
Fraud in North Carolina often preys on trust. Fake charity scams target generous residents, particularly during crises or natural disasters. Seniors in the state frequently report Medicare fraud and sweepstakes scams, where con artists claim victims have won prizes but demand payment to claim them. Online shopping fraud is also common, with counterfeit goods and non-existent items being sold through shady websites.
Pennsylvania
Phishing emails and robocalls make Pennsylvania a breeding ground for fraud. Many scams target older residents, including fake utility bill schemes and tech support cons.
Philadelphia residents also often deal with rental scams, where fraudsters post fake listings and collect deposits for properties they don’t own. Knowing the signs of a scam can save Pennsylvanians from losing hard-earned money.
Arizona
The warm weather and growing population in Arizona attract more than just new residents—it draws scammers too. Real estate fraud is a big issue, with people being tricked into paying for fake timeshares or non-existent rental properties. Phone scams targeting seniors are widespread, with callers pretending to be relatives in need of emergency cash.
Michigan
Scams in Michigan often center around auto repair and insurance fraud. Fake mechanics offer cheap fixes but disappear with customers’ money before completing the work. Detroit sees a high number of credit card fraud cases, with stolen information used to rack up unauthorized charges.
Charity scams are also common, particularly during times of crisis when people are more willing to donate.
Colorado
A booming tech industry in Colorado has brought with it a rise in cybercrime. Phishing emails and fake tech support calls are common, targeting residents with promises to fix non-existent computer issues.
Rental scams are another issue, especially in areas like Denver, where housing demand is high. Tourists visiting the state are often targeted with counterfeit tickets for events or attractions.
Washington
The Pacific Northwest isn’t immune to scams, and Washington state faces its fair share of fraud cases. Online scams like phishing emails and fake tech support calls are frequent, especially in tech-heavy areas like Seattle. Government impersonation schemes are also common, with scammers pretending to be IRS agents or Social Security officials.
Virginia
Scammers in Virginia often target residents through phone calls and online schemes. Romance scams are particularly common, where con artists use dating apps to gain trust before asking for money. Identity theft is another major issue, with stolen personal information frequently used to commit fraud.
New Jersey
Fraud in New Jersey spans everything from identity theft to fake debt collection schemes. During tax season, phishing emails claiming to be from the IRS increase dramatically, tricking people into sharing sensitive data. The state’s dense population makes it an easy target for fraudsters looking for quick wins.
Tennessee
Natural disasters often bring out the worst in scammers in Tennessee. Fake contractors promising to repair storm damage are a common issue, with fraudsters taking payments and disappearing without completing the work.
Phone scams are also widespread, targeting residents with threats of arrest or demands for unpaid bills and identity theft cases have been rising, with phishing emails and data breaches being major culprits.