The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) released its 2024 Internet Crime Report, detailing over 859,000 complaints and losses exceeding $16 billion, 33% increase from 2023. The top reported cybercrimes were phishing/spoofing, extortion, and personal data breaches. Investment fraud, especially involving cryptocurrency, led to the highest losses, totaling over $6.5 billion.
According to the 2024 report, California, Texas, and Florida had the highest number of complaints. People over the age of 60 experienced the most significant losses, totaling nearly $5 billion, and submitted the most complaints.
Below are suggested tips to consider that may prevent internet crime:
- Stay Vigilant: Be cautious of unsolicited emails and messages. Verify the sender before clicking on links or downloading attachments.
- Secure Personal Data: Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
- Educate Yourself: Regularly review consumer and industry alerts published by the IC3 to stay informed about the latest scams and threats.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you or your business are a victim of an internet crime, immediately notify all financial institutions involved, submit a complaint to IC3, contact year nearest FBI field office, and local law enforcement.
As indicated in the below link, FBI Director Kash Patel emphasizes the importance of reporting cyber crimes to help law enforcement combat fraud and scams.
For more information or to report a cyber crime visit: https://www.fbi.gov/news/press-releases/fbi-releases-annual-internet-crime-report
Make Sure Your Clients Take a Proactive Approach To Protecting Their Business Should a Loss Occur
Make sure your clients have crime insurance. Take the steps to ensure that your clients are covered by calling one of the Berkley Crime team members listed below.
Sincerely,
Michael Beranek
Berkley Crime
Experts focused on your protection. We deliver.
| National Practice Leader Michael Beranek (646) 522-7362 [email protected] | East Regional Manager/Commercial Crime Product Leader Matt McNamara (212) 497-3707 [email protected] |
| West Regional Manager Brian Platt (720) 979-1155 [email protected] | Renewal Team Leader Cheryl Yorio (860) 466-7379 [email protected] |