New Data Shows Fraud Impact in Maryland — AARP Responds with Free Community Events

According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers in Maryland reported $198.9M stolen by fraud in 2024 (the most recent year for which data is available), with the most common scams involving credit bureaus and information furnishers; identity theft; and impostor scams.

Fraud in Maryland: The Latest Numbers

• Total reported fraud losses: $198.9M
• Number of reports filed: 111,041
• Top reported scams:
  • Credit bureaus and information furnishers (28%)
  • Identity theft (15%)
  • Imposter scams (11%)

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Increasingly, fraudsters are relying on gift cards and cryptocurrency to conceal their illicit activity. The data underscores why fraud is a priority issue that affects everyone.

AARP Virginia

In response, AARP is taking action this April during Fraud Prevention Month, bringing free in-person and virtual events, workshops, and fraud-prevention resources directly to communities across Maryland, culminating in Protect Week, April 20 to 25.

AARP is combatting fraud from multiple angles:

• Empowering people with information about crypto kiosk scams and what to do if they are targeted
• Urging policymakers to establish practical safeguards for consumers
• Supporting fraud victims through the AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline and fraud victim support program

During the 2026 legislative session, AARP Maryland is supporting bills that will help protect consumers from fraud:

• HB 1008/SB 753, the Vulnerable Adult Banking Protection Act, aims to prevent financial exploitation of seniors and vulnerable adults by empowering financial institutions to intervene in suspicious transactions. The bill balances protection with operational feasibility for banks and credit unions.
• HB 738/SB 741, Financial Institutions and Activities - Virtual Currency Kiosks, strengthens regulation of virtual currency kiosks by closing loopholes that allow operators to evade oversight and to ensure kiosks only provide virtual currency services, in order to protect consumers, especially older adults, from fraudulent transactions.

More Resources

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline: Get guidance from trained fraud specialists: Call 877-908-3360 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET.

Subscribe to Watchdog Alerts: Stay on top of the latest scams by subscribing to AARP's free bi-weekly newsletter by email and text.

AARP Scam-Tracking Map: See scams occurring near you or report one if you’ve been targeted.

E-Learning — Effective Ways to Protect Yourself From Scams: This free course explains how to spot warning signs, disengage from scammers and take action if you're a target.