Protecting Idaho Seniors from Tech Support Scams
In 2025, 142 Idaho seniors reported tech support scam complaints to the FBI, contributing to total elder fraud losses of $37.4 million statewide. Tech support scams are among the most common and devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. This guide will help you recognize, avoid, and report tech support scams.
Why Idaho Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Idaho has unique characteristics that put its senior population at heightened risk:
- Rural isolation: Idaho is one of the most rural states in the nation, with many seniors living in remote areas far from in-person tech support or financial advisors
- Rapid population growth: Idaho has been the fastest-growing state in recent years, and its senior population is expanding quickly, outpacing fraud prevention resources
- Trust culture: Idaho’s close-knit, community-oriented culture means seniors are more likely to trust callers who sound friendly and authoritative
- Limited broadband: Many rural Idaho communities lack reliable high-speed internet, meaning seniors may be less familiar with online scam tactics
- Agricultural wealth: Idaho seniors with farming and ranching assets are targeted by scammers pushing fake agricultural investments and land deals
5-Year Trend: Tech Support Scam Losses in Idaho (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 77 | $393K | — |
| 2022 | 101 | $3.3M | +752% |
| 2023 | 97 | $1.2M | -63% |
| 2024 | 109 | $3.3M | +170% |
| 2025 | 142 | $5.6M | +69% |
| 5-Year Total | 526 | $13.9M | +1327% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for Idaho residents aged 60 and older.
Idaho ranks #36 nationally in tech support scam losses targeting seniors, with $5.6 million lost in 2025 across 142 reported victims. Year over year, losses surged +69% — significantly faster than the national average of +5%. Over the full five-year period, tech support scam losses in Idaho grew +1327%.
Complete guide: For detailed warning signs, protection strategies, and what to do if you’ve been targeted, read our comprehensive Tech Support Scam Prevention Guide. You can also take our free Online Training courses to test your knowledge.
Report Tech Support Scams in Idaho
- Office of the Idaho Attorney General: (208) 334-2400 | ag.idaho.gov
- FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
- FBI IC3: ic3.gov
- Microsoft: microsoft.com/reportascam
Free Training Available
Take our free online course to learn more about protecting yourself from tech support scams:
→ Start Tech Support Scam Awareness Training (Module 2)