FBI Tracked AI Scams in 2025 Internet Crime Report
The FBI documented a significant rise in sophisticated AI-driven cybercrime across the country last year.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Financial Crime
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In its 2025 Internet Crime Report, the FBI recorded more than 22,000 AI-related complaints nationwide. These scams resulted in nearly $900 million in total victim losses as criminals utilized advanced technology to increase the speed of their operations.
Why it matters
Artificial intelligence allows bad actors to target vulnerable populations with greater efficiency and sophistication than traditional methods. As these threats evolve, the FBI is dedicating additional tools and staff to pursue those responsible for these cybercrimes.
The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) currently receives approximately 3,000 complaints per day. Officials are actively investigating the surge in investment fraud, extortion, and phishing schemes leveraging AI tools.
The players
Federal Bureau of Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the primary federal law enforcement agency in the United States tasked with investigating cybercrimes through its Internet Crime Complaint Center.
The details
Criminals are increasingly adopting AI to enhance the sophistication of their attacks, making it difficult for the average person to discern legitimate communications from scams. In Alabama alone, victims reported 57 AI-related complaints that resulted in $6 million in total losses.
Timeline
The FBI recorded over one million total internet crime complaints throughout 2025.
Legal Context
The 2025 Internet Crime Report marks a departure from traditional cybercrime tracking by creating a specific category for artificial intelligence exploitation. This shift mirrors the historical evolution of law enforcement response to new technological mediums, such as the initial rise of web-based phishing.
Residents should remain vigilant against unsolicited investment opportunities and phishing attempts that appear unusually sophisticated. Authorities recommend reporting any suspicious digital activity to local agencies or the IC3 to assist in ongoing investigations.
The takeaway
The rapid integration of AI into criminal toolkits underscores the importance of verifying digital communications before providing personal or financial information. Staying informed about the latest scam patterns is the most effective way for individuals to protect their assets.
Further reading
For more information on national security and fraud trends, visit the Financial Crime section.
More information
To report a scam or view the latest security alerts, visit the FBI internet crime complaint portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wbrc.
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