Protecting Rhode Island Seniors from Tech Support Scams
In 2025, 74 Rhode Island seniors reported tech support scam complaints to the FBI, contributing to total elder fraud losses of $21.6 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 Rhode Island Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Rhode Island has unique characteristics that put its senior population at heightened risk:
- Small state, tight networks: Rhode Island’s small size means scammers can quickly spread through community networks and target connected groups
- Aging population: Rhode Island has one of the oldest populations in New England, with a high percentage of residents over 65
- Italian-American communities: Tight-knit ethnic communities are targeted through affinity fraud schemes that exploit cultural trust
- New England winters: Cold winters keep seniors indoors, increasing exposure to phone and online scams
- Healthcare dependence: Rhode Island’s seniors rely heavily on healthcare systems, making Medicare and insurance scams particularly effective
5-Year Trend: Tech Support Scam Losses in Rhode Island (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 31 | $769K | — |
| 2022 | 55 | $1.7M | +124% |
| 2023 | 71 | $1.1M | -36% |
| 2024 | 58 | $1.6M | +40% |
| 2025 | 74 | $3.2M | +106% |
| 5-Year Total | 289 | $8.4M | +319% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for Rhode Island residents aged 60 and older.
Rhode Island ranks #41 nationally in tech support scam losses targeting seniors, with $3.2 million lost in 2025 across 74 reported victims. Year over year, losses surged +106% — significantly faster than the national average of +5%. Over the full five-year period, tech support scam losses in Rhode Island grew +319%.
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 Rhode Island
- Office of the Rhode Island Attorney General: (401) 274-4400 | riag.ri.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)