Google: Online Scam Trends in 2025

Google’s Trust & Safety teams have released a comprehensive report on the latest trends in online scams, highlighting the evolving tactics used by fraudsters in 2025. The report, published ahead of the Google Safety Engineering Center’s inaugural Scams Summit on May 28, provides critical insights into the growing sophistication of scam tactics and the measures being taken to combat them.

The escalating threat of online scams is evident in recent data. In 2024, the Global Anti-Scam Alliance reported that scammers stole a staggering $1 trillion globally within just 12 months. In the U.S., the Federal Trade Commission noted a 25% year-over-year increase in reported losses to fraud, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.

Customer Support Scams

Customer support scams, where fraudsters impersonate legitimate support services, continue to evolve. Scammers are exploiting user distress through social engineering and web vulnerabilities to display fake phone numbers, often imitating well-known brands. Google has implemented measures to counter these scams, including blocking ads for third-party tech support and providing official customer service information in Search. Additionally, Chrome now offers AI-powered protection using the on-device Gemini Nano model to safeguard users from dangerous sites.

Malvertising Threats

Malvertising, the distribution of malware through online advertising, remains a significant threat. While traditionally targeting users seeking free or cracked software, scammers are now focusing on more sophisticated users, such as those with valuable assets like crypto wallets or significant online influence. Google combats malvertising through a combination of AI and human review, identifying and blocking ad creatives and accounts that lead users to malicious software. Suspensions are immediate for accounts violating Google Ads policies.

Travel Scams on the Rise

As the summer vacation season approaches, travel scams have seen a sharp increase. Fake travel websites lure users with unrealistic discounts or experiences, often imitating well-known hotels or travel agencies. Google actively monitors and suspends advertisers for such violations, ensuring that ads do not misrepresent information about businesses or services.

Package Tracking Scams

Package tracking scams exploit the rise of online shopping by sending fraudulent messages that appear to be from legitimate delivery companies. These scams often trick users into paying additional fees that real delivery services would never request. Scammers use phishing kits like Darcula and Xiu Gou to mimic legitimate websites rapidly. Google Messages has introduced Scam Detection, which uses AI to warn users about suspicious messages, empowering them to stay safe.

Toll Road Scams

The rise of cashless tolls has led to a new wave of toll road scams. Scammers send fraudulent text messages claiming unpaid toll fees, often mimicking global brands. Google Messages has rolled out enhancements to detect and warn users about these scams in real time, helping them avoid falling victim to these schemes.

As online scams continue to evolve, Google remains committed to keeping people informed and protected. Users can report scams on Google’s platforms through their help center, contributing to the ongoing effort to combat fraud.