Protecting Maine Seniors from Investment Scams
Investment fraud is the costliest scam type targeting American seniors, and Maine is no exception. In 2025, 51 Maine seniors aged 60 and older reported investment scam complaints to the FBI. With total elder fraud losses in the state reaching $23.3 million, protecting retirement savings has never been more critical.
Why Maine Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Several factors unique to Maine put seniors at heightened risk for investment fraud:
- Oldest median age: Maine has the oldest median age in the nation at 44.8 years, with over 21% of residents aged 65 and older
- Extreme rural isolation: Maine is the most rural state in the eastern U.S., with many seniors living in remote areas far from in-person support
- Harsh winters: Long, cold Maine winters keep seniors indoors for months, increasing time on phones and computers where scammers operate
- Limited broadband: Much of northern and western Maine lacks reliable internet, meaning seniors may be less familiar with online scam tactics
- Independent culture: Maine’s self-reliant culture means seniors may be reluctant to ask for help or admit they’ve been targeted by a scam
5-Year Trend: Investment Scam Losses in Maine (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 7 | $141K | — |
| 2022 | 12 | $3.6M | +2449% |
| 2023 | 7 | $333K | -91% |
| 2024 | 33 | $5.5M | +1535% |
| 2025 | 51 | $10.5M | +92% |
| 5-Year Total | 110 | $20.0M | +7333% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for Maine residents aged 60 and older.
Maine ranks #41 nationally in investment scam losses targeting seniors, with $10.5 million lost in 2025 across 51 reported victims. Year over year, losses changed +92% (national average: +83%). Over the full five-year period, investment scam losses in Maine grew +7333%.
Complete guide: For detailed warning signs, protection strategies, and what to do if you’ve been targeted, read our comprehensive Investment Scam Prevention Guide. You can also take our free Online Training courses to test your knowledge.
Report Investment Fraud in Maine
- Office of the Maine Attorney General: (207) 626-8800 | maine.gov/ag
- SEC: sec.gov/tcr
- FINRA: (844) 574-3577 | brokercheck.finra.org
- FBI IC3: ic3.gov
Free Training Available
Take our free online course to learn more about protecting yourself from investment scams:
→ Start Investment Scam Awareness Training (Module 3)