NorthWave Communications will be sharing information from the 2025 FBI Internet Crime Report over several weeks.
TRANSACTION TYPES
Romance and confidence fraud cost Alaskans $7.1 million in 2025 — and the emotional toll goes far beyond the financial loss. These scams begin with a relationship — romantic, friendly, or even someone posing as a family member — built entirely on lies. Once trust is established, the fraudster begins asking for money, gift cards, wire transfers, or personal financial information, often with urgent or heartbreaking stories designed to bypass your better judgment.
If someone you’ve only met online is asking for money — no matter how real the relationship feels — stop and talk to a trusted friend or family member before acting.
If you are the victim of an online or internet-enabled crime, file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).