Scam Alerts Surge: 96% of U.S. Adults Targeted Weekly, New Report Finds

If your phone, inbox, or text messages are constantly being hit with suspicious links or unknown senders, you’re not alone. A new survey from CNET reveals that 96% of U.S. adults receive at least one scam attempt—via phone, email, or text—every week.

CNET Consumer Insights Editor Dashia Milden says it's a sign of the times. While scam emails remain the most common, reported by 90% of those surveyed, scam phone calls (83%) and text messages (82%) are close behind.

“I’ve got to say that that’s surprising to me,” said Milden. “My phone rings constantly.”

The Federal Trade Commission says that in 2024 alone, Americans have lost an estimated $470 million to scam texts. These messages are often crafted to appear urgent or legitimate, which is why Milden advises people to be extra cautious.

One area of growing concern: artificial intelligence. Scammers can now replicate your voice using brief audio clips. Milden warns, “If you don’t recognize the caller, hang up immediately after saying hello to prevent them from capturing your voice.”

To help protect yourself, experts recommend freezing your credit, avoiding clicking unknown links, and never answering calls from unfamiliar numbers.

“Now is a really good time to freeze your credit,” Milden emphasized. “If scammers access your data, your credit is already protected.”

As summer begins, consumer advocates are urging the public to stay on high alert, as seasonal scams—including vacation rental fraud and fake travel deals—tend to spike.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.

Credit: CNN Newsource