Phishing Scams on the Rise

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Phishing scams remain one of the most common, and costly, cybercrimes facing consumers and businesses today. 

According to the Better Business Bureau, more than 23,000 phishing reports have been filed since 2021, with cases more than doubling in 2023. 

Victims are often targeted through emails, text messages, and even fraudulent phone calls designed to steal personal or financial information.

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reported losses exceeding $18 million in 2023 tied to phishing. 

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center says the rise of artificial intelligence has made scam messages appear more realistic than ever, making them harder to detect.

Phishing tactics have expanded to include QR codes, fake search engine results, and convincing impersonations of trusted companies. 

Victims risk not only losing money but also compromising their accounts and personal data.

Cybersecurity officials recommend double-checking links, avoiding sharing sensitive information through email, and reporting scams immediately. 

Consumers and businesses alike are urged to strengthen protections and report suspected scams to the BBB scam tracker page as phishing schemes continue to grow more sophisticated.