Protecting Alaska Seniors from Romance Scams
Romance scams are among the most emotionally devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. In 2025, 63 Alaska seniors reported romance scam complaints to the FBI. These scams exploit loneliness and the desire for connection, draining victims of their savings while leaving deep emotional wounds.
Why Alaska Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Alaska’s demographics and culture create specific risk factors for romance scams:
- Geographic isolation: Alaska is the most geographically isolated state, with many seniors living in remote communities accessible only by plane or boat
- Extreme winter isolation: Long, dark Alaskan winters keep seniors indoors for months, increasing time online and exposure to digital scams
- Military retiree population: Alaska’s large military retiree community is specifically targeted by scammers impersonating VA and military benefits offices
- Limited local services: Many Alaskan communities have no local computer shops, banks, or government offices, forcing seniors to rely on phone and online services
- High cost of living: Alaska’s expensive cost of living means financial losses from scams are even more devastating to seniors on fixed incomes
5-Year Trend: Romance Scam Losses in Alaska (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 29 | $1.6M | — |
| 2022 | 24 | $986K | -39% |
| 2023 | 22 | $1.7M | +73% |
| 2024 | 35 | $303K | -82% |
| 2025 | 63 | $4.1M | +1242% |
| 5-Year Total | 173 | $8.7M | +153% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for Alaska residents aged 60 and older.
Alaska ranks #36 nationally in romance scam losses targeting seniors, with $4.1 million lost in 2025 across 63 reported victims. Year over year, losses surged +1242% — significantly faster than the national average of +46%. Over the full five-year period, romance scam losses in Alaska grew +153%.
Complete guide: For detailed warning signs, protection strategies, and what to do if you’ve been targeted, read our comprehensive Romance Scam Prevention Guide. You can also take our free Online Training courses to test your knowledge.
Report Romance Scams in Alaska
- Office of the Alaska Attorney General: (907) 269-5602 | law.alaska.gov
- Alaska Adult Protective Services: (800) 478-9996
- FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
- FBI IC3: ic3.gov
- Dating platform: Report the profile on the platform where you were contacted
Free Training Available
Take our free online course to learn more about protecting yourself from romance scams:
→ Start Romance Scam Awareness Training (Module 4)