Indiana Fares Better Than Most With Scams

 New research has revealed Indiana among the states least at risk of scams; however, experts have warned residents to remain vigilant, as those who do fall victim lose over $400 on average.

The research, conducted by experts at product comparison platform WhatAreTheBest.com, analyzed data from the Federal Trade Commission on the number of fraud reports in each state during each quarter over a three-year period. They compared these figures to population data to find the average number of quarterly fraud reports per 100,000 residents, revealing the states most at risk of being scammed. 

The average number of quarterly fraud reports per 100,000 residents across the US is 141.85.

Indiana findings

 Indiana recorded an average of 125.91quarterly fraud reports per 100,000 residents. This figure is 11% lower than the national average. Over the three-year period analyzed, there were 102,009 fraud reports in the state in total.

 Among Indiana residents who did fall victim to scams, the average reported loss to each victim was $418.22.

 While Indiana ranks low among states experiencing the highest rates of fraud, residents should not become complacent. Morethan 100,000 reports over three years show that scams remain a persistent issue affecting thousands of households across the state, and anybody is at risk of financial loss if they let their guard down.

“Scams are one of the most costly crimes to Americans, with people reporting losses of hundreds of dollars in single reports,” Albert Richer, founder of whatarethebest.com, said. “The huge number of reports in each state also goes to show how common this crime is, and how easy it can be to fall victim. Fake retail websites, counterfeit ads on social media, and phishing emails or scam calls disguised as shipping or payment notifications are just a few of the tactics criminals use to target online shoppers, so you must remain cautious,” he added.

“It is important to only shop on trusted websites, avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links that seem too good to be true, and only use secure payment methods that offer fraud protection. Criminals may also use bank impersonation scams, phone call scams, text message ‘smishing,’ tech support fraud scams, and even government impersonation schemes to trick victims into giving away money or personal information. These scams often create a sense of urgency, threaten consequences, or ask for sensitive information such as passwords, PINs, or one-time security codes. To avoid falling victim, never share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers or messages, hang up and contact the organization directly using a verified number, be cautious of requests for payment through gift cards or wire transfers, and take time to pause and verify before responding.”

Richer said vigilance is key.

“It is crucial to take steps to protect yourself from fraud, no matter which state you are in, and if you think that you may have fallen victim to a scam, contact your bank immediately, report it to the Federal Trade Commission, and change any passwords that may have been compromised.”