BBB Scam Tracker^SM Reporting Tool

BBB Scam Tracker^SM is an online tool that enables consumers and businesses to report scams in an effort to prevent others from falling prey to similar cons. The easy-to-use tool collects and presents scam data in a searchable online “heat map,” showing users the number and types of scams and hoaxes reported in their communities.

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Data & Research

As a non-partisan, neutral organization, BBB Institute is able to produce research that provides fresh insights into the scam landscape. Using data pulled from BBB Scam Tracker^_SM and other sources, we provide fresh insights by identifying the latest tactics used by scammers.

Timely, crowd-sourced data.

Reports verified by local BBBs.

Neutral, non-partisan organization.

Insights translated into consumer education and awareness programs.

Findings shared with law enforcement.

Published Reports

Our BBB Scam Tracker^SM Risk Report provides groundbreaking insights built from BBB Scam Tracker^SM data. The Risk Report was the first research report to introduce the Risk Index, a new three-dimensional measure of scam risk based on exposure, susceptibility and monetary loss. DOWNLOAD RESEARCH

In our seminal study, Cracking the Invulnerability Illusion: Stereotypes, Optimism Bias, and the Way Forward for Marketplace Scam Education, BBB Institute surveyed consumers in the United States and Canada to identify the stereotypes and misperceptions around scam victimization that are a barrier to effective outreach to at-risk populations. DOWNLOAD RESEARCH

In our latest research project with the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Scams and Your Small Business, we used survey data and Scam Tracker^SM data to provide insights on scams targeting small businesses. DOWNLOAD RESEARCH

Key Findings

Riskiest scams of 2019: Employment Scams, Cryptocurrency Scams, Online Purchase Scams, Fake Check/Money Order Scams, and Advance Fee Loan Scams. (Source: 2019 BBB Scam Tracker^SM Risk Report)

2019 riskiest scams for ages 18-54, students, and military spouses: Employment Scams (Source: 2019 BBB Scam Tracker^SM Risk Report)

2019 riskiest scams for veterans and ages 65+: Travel/Vacation/Timeshare Scams (Source: 2019 BBB Scam Tracker^SM Risk Report)

2019 riskiest scams for service members: Online Purchase Scams (Source: 2019 BBB Scam Tracker^SM Risk Report)

2019 most impersonated organization: Social Security Administration (Source: 2019 BBB Scam Tracker^SM Risk Report)

Top misperception: Contrary to widely held beliefs, younger consumers, rather than older adults, are most likely to have been scammed. Seniors, on the other hand, are more likely to lose more money. (Source: Cracking the Invulnerability Illusion: Stereotypes, Optimism Bias, and the Way Forward for Marketplace Scam Education)

Top Riskiest Scam Targeted at Small Businesses: Bank/Credit Card Imposter Scams, followed by Directory Listing and Advertising Scams and Fake Invoice/Supplier Bill Scams. (Source: Scams and Your Small Business Report)