Protecting South Dakota Seniors from Romance Scams
Romance scams are among the most emotionally devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. In 2025, 22 South Dakota 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 South Dakota Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
South Dakota’s demographics and culture create specific risk factors for romance scams:
- Vast rural distances: South Dakota’s extremely low population density means many seniors live hours from the nearest city or tech support
- Native American elders: South Dakota’s large Native American population includes elders on reservations with limited broadband and services
- Agricultural wealth: Farming and ranching seniors with land assets are targeted by scammers pushing fake investment opportunities
- Harsh winters: Brutal South Dakota winters isolate seniors for months, increasing vulnerability to phone and online scams
- No state income tax: South Dakota’s tax-friendly policies attract retirees with savings that scammers target
5-Year Trend: Romance Scam Losses in South Dakota (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 18 | $1.0M | — |
| 2022 | 28 | $649K | -37% |
| 2023 | 13 | $195K | -70% |
| 2024 | 27 | $644K | +230% |
| 2025 | 22 | $3.9M | +510% |
| 5-Year Total | 108 | $6.4M | +283% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for South Dakota residents aged 60 and older.
South Dakota ranks #38 nationally in romance scam losses targeting seniors, with $3.9 million lost in 2025 across 22 reported victims. Year over year, losses surged +510% — significantly faster than the national average of +46%. Over the full five-year period, romance scam losses in South Dakota grew +283%.
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 South Dakota
- Office of the South Dakota Attorney General: (605) 773-3215 | atg.sd.gov
- South Dakota Adult Protective Services: (605) 773-3656
- 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)