Protecting Rhode Island Seniors from Romance Scams
Romance scams are among the most emotionally devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. In 2025, 27 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Rhode Island’s demographics and culture create specific risk factors for romance scams:
- 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: Romance Scam Losses in Rhode Island (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 27 | $2.2M | — |
| 2022 | 24 | $882K | -60% |
| 2023 | 17 | $2.2M | +154% |
| 2024 | 27 | $1.2M | -48% |
| 2025 | 27 | $1.5M | +33% |
| 5-Year Total | 122 | $8.1M | -31% |
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 #46 nationally in romance scam losses targeting seniors, with $1.5 million lost in 2025 across 27 reported victims. Year over year, losses changed +33%, outperforming the national average of +46%. Over the full five-year period, romance scam losses in Rhode Island grew -31%.
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 Rhode Island
- Office of the Rhode Island Attorney General: (401) 274-4400 | riag.ri.gov
- Rhode Island Adult Protective Services: (401) 462-0555
- 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)