Phishing scam reports to the Better Business Bureau nearly doubled in 2023

HASTINGS, Neb. (KSNB) – One of the oldest and well-known scams continues to adapt new technology to continue targeting victims.

Whether it’s via email, text or phone call, the Better Business Bureau reports that it’s becoming more and more common.

With artificial intelligence developments, scammers are finding new ways to target individuals.

“It’s incredibly successful because of how adaptable it is to a variety forms of communication and over the past twelve months, a lot of us have had a front row seat to artificial intelligence,” said Josh Planos with the BBB.

A common tactic people report is through text, where a scammer will pose as the post office asking for money or information before a package can be delivered.

Planos said the recent study shows that scammers target all demographics.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation reported that businesses have lost billions over the last three years due to phishing scams.

“Business owners are really susceptible to these types of scams because they look exactly like what you would expect with invoice communication,” said Planos. “When you get something in the mail saying that bill is due, you just need to click here to remedy it. That happens all the time for folks who are working in finance or are small business owners.”

Planos said utility scams are common because most people don’t have a relationship with someone from their local utility company.

“When faced with the real prospect of having the electricity cut off or gas closed or you know a roof no longer being over your head, that can be a very easy decision for consumer, a homeowner, to say I guess I need to pay this amount of money otherwise I’m going to lose something that I absolutely need,” said Planos.

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