Fed Report Shows Scam Risk Spans Generations

Financial fraud has often been framed as a threat concentrated among older adults, but the Federal Reserve Board’s latest household survey shows exposure spans every age group. Younger consumers face distinct vulnerabilities as debit cards and peer-to-peer payment services are common channels outside credit-card fraud, where recovery protections may be weaker. The findings broaden the policy focus to financial education, identity safeguards and transaction monitoring for teens and young adults.

The Fed’s Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2025, released in May 2026, found 20% of U.S. adults experienced financial fraud or scams in 2025, including 13% of those aged 18 to 29. Credit-card fraud affected 16% of adults, while 8% reported another type. Non-credit-card fraud generated an estimated $100 billion in losses; consumers recovered $44 billion, leaving $56 billion borne directly by households.