Story perspectives

2024 Tech Support Scams Cost Americans $1.464 Billion

8/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2024, tech support scams have cost Americans $1.464 billion, primarily affecting Millennials and Gen Z.
Scammers employ pop-ups and phone calls to gain remote access to victims' computers, resulting in identity theft.
The "Phantom Hacker" scam has defrauded elderly victims of over $1 billion since early 2024 through impersonation.
Experts recommend against granting remote access or transferring money based on unsolicited communications; always verify with trusted sources.

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Story summary

In 2024, tech support scams have cost Americans $1.464 billion, primarily affecting Millennials and Gen Z.
Scammers employ pop-ups and phone calls to gain remote access to victims' computers, resulting in identity theft.
The "Phantom Hacker" scam has defrauded elderly victims of over $1 billion since early 2024 through impersonation.
Experts recommend against granting remote access or transferring money based on unsolicited communications; always verify with trusted sources.