Protecting New Hampshire Seniors from Romance Scams
Romance scams are among the most emotionally devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. In 2025, 64 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
New Hampshire’s demographics and culture create specific risk factors for romance scams:
- Aging population: New Hampshire has the 5th-oldest median age in the nation, with a rapidly growing population over 65
- Rural northern regions: The North Country and Lakes Region are deeply rural, with many seniors living far from in-person support services
- No sales or income tax: New Hampshire’s tax-friendly policies attract retirees with savings that scammers target
- New England winters: Long, cold winters keep seniors homebound and more exposed to phone and online scams
- Independent streak: New Hampshire’s “Live Free or Die” culture means seniors may resist asking for help or reporting scams
5-Year Trend: Romance Scam Losses in New Hampshire (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 22 | $158K | — |
| 2022 | 26 | $1.5M | +861% |
| 2023 | 31 | $2.5M | +61% |
| 2024 | 55 | $1.6M | -34% |
| 2025 | 64 | $3.3M | +104% |
| 5-Year Total | 198 | $9.1M | +1992% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for New Hampshire residents aged 60 and older.
New Hampshire ranks #39 nationally in romance scam losses targeting seniors, with $3.3 million lost in 2025 across 64 reported victims. Year over year, losses surged +104% — significantly faster than the national average of +46%. Over the full five-year period, romance scam losses in New Hampshire grew +1992%.
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 New Hampshire
- Office of the New Hampshire Attorney General: (603) 271-3658 | doj.nh.gov
- New Hampshire Adult Protective Services: (800) 949-0470
- 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)