F-Secure Warns of Rising Global Scam Threat

Scam rates have doubled globally, with young adults most at risk. F-Secure urges systemic protection and provider-led defenses.

Alarming Growth in Scam Activity

F-Secure has released its 2025 Scam Intelligence & Impacts Report, highlighting a sharp rise in global scam incidents over the past year. The report shows that while 69% of people believe they can recognize scams, 43% still fell victim during the same period. In the United States, scam rates doubled between 2024 and 2025, underscoring the growing scale of the problem. Surprisingly, young adults aged 18–34 were found to be more than twice as vulnerable as older generations.

According to Laura Kankaala, Head of Threat Intelligence at F-Secure, the ease of online scamming has reached unprecedented levels. Criminals now exploit both technology and human psychology to maximize illicit gains. Despite increased awareness, the report identifies troubling global patterns that suggest the issue is far from being resolved. Kankaala emphasized that cybersecurity challenges will persist for younger generations unless addressed proactively.

Psychological Manipulation and Underreporting

Scams have evolved into industrialized operations powered by artificial intelligence and emotional manipulation. F-Secure researcher Megan Squire noted that behind each statistic is a person who has lost money, confidence, or peace of mind. Only 7% of scam incidents are reported, often due to stigma or embarrassment, leaving many victims without support. This silence contributes to the persistence of scams and limits the effectiveness of countermeasures.

False confidence plays a significant role in victimization, as many individuals overestimate their ability to detect fraudulent schemes. The report also found that half of consumers are willing to pay for scam protection, with younger users expecting it as a built-in service. These findings suggest a growing demand for integrated security solutions. Addressing the emotional and behavioral aspects of scams is essential for long-term prevention.

Systemic Solutions and Industry Responsibility

F-Secure argues that combating scams should not be left solely to individuals. Service providers are in a unique position to implement embedded protections and offer continuous education tailored to user behavior. Fredrik Torstensson, Chief Partner Business Officer at F-Secure, called for a shift from victim-blaming to building digital resilience. He stressed that scam defense should become as fundamental as internet access itself.

The report urges providers to take the lead in safeguarding users by integrating scam detection into everyday services. Proactive measures can help reduce exposure and mitigate the psychological impact of digital fraud. As scams become more sophisticated, coordinated efforts across the tech industry will be necessary. Consumers are clearly signaling their need for better protection, and the time to act is now.