FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center Receives Over 1 Million Fraud Reports in 2023

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reported that its Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received over one million fraud-related complaints in 2025, marking a significant surge in cyber-enabled crime across the United States. The volume of reports underscores the growing threat posed by digital fraud, with victims collectively losing billions of dollars to scams and cybercrime. While the exact dollar figure for 2025 has not yet been released, the FBI’s 2024 report indicated losses exceeding $16 billion—a 33% increase from the prior year—highlighting the escalating scale of financial harm inflicted by cybercriminals.

The IC3 serves as the primary intake hub for cybercrime complaints in the U.S., handling cases ranging from fraudulent transactions and identity theft to more sophisticated cyberattacks targeting individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure. The FBI emphasizes that reporting such crimes is essential to combating the threat, even if victims are uncertain whether their case qualifies. Each complaint contributes to the agency’s broader understanding of emerging fraud patterns and aids in law enforcement efforts to disrupt criminal networks.

Cybercrime remains a top priority for the FBI, reflecting its role as the lead federal agency for investigating digital threats. The bureau’s organizational structure includes dedicated divisions such as the Cyber Division and the Critical Incident Response Group, which collaborate with international partners to address cross-border cybercrime. The IC3’s annual reports provide a snapshot of the evolving tactics employed by cybercriminals, including phishing schemes, ransomware attacks, and investment scams.

For victims of cyber-enabled fraud, the FBI advises taking immediate steps to mitigate further damage, such as contacting financial institutions, filing police reports, and reporting the incident to the IC3. The bureau also directs victims to specialized resources, including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for cases involving minors and tips.fbi.gov for urgent threats like terrorism or violent crime.

The surge in fraud complaints reflects broader trends in digital crime, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing reliance on online platforms for commerce, communication, and financial transactions. As cybercriminals adapt their methods, the FBI continues to refine its investigative strategies and public awareness campaigns to protect vulnerable populations and critical systems.

How to Report Cybercrime

Victims of cyber-enabled fraud are encouraged to:

1. File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
2. Contact local law enforcement for immediate assistance.
3. Report threats of terrorism or violent crime directly to the FBI via tips.fbi.gov.
4. Visit the FBI’s official website for additional resources on cybersecurity and fraud prevention.