The internet has made everyday life more convenient, from remote work to online banking. But that convenience has also created more opportunities for scammers to target your money and personal information.
According to a 2026 report from the Consumer Federation of America, Americans lose an estimated $119 billion annually to online scams. And the risk spans generations. In 2025, the Pew Research Center found that 73% of U.S. adults had experienced an online scam or attack, with similarly high rates among adults under 30 and those ages 30 to 64.
While you can’t eliminate the risk entirely, a few simple habits can make it harder for scammers to get your personal information or your money. Here are seven steps you can take to better protect yourself online.
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