Protecting Maine Seniors from Romance Scams
Romance scams are among the most emotionally devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. In 2025, 51 Maine 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 Maine Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Maine’s demographics and culture create specific risk factors for romance scams:
- 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: Romance Scam Losses in Maine (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 23 | $284K | — |
| 2022 | 39 | $945K | +233% |
| 2023 | 30 | $2.0M | +113% |
| 2024 | 44 | $626K | -69% |
| 2025 | 51 | $759K | +21% |
| 5-Year Total | 187 | $4.6M | +168% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for Maine residents aged 60 and older.
Maine ranks #47 nationally in romance scam losses targeting seniors, with $759,340 lost in 2025 across 51 reported victims. Year over year, losses changed +21%, outperforming the national average of +46%. Over the full five-year period, romance scam losses in Maine grew +168%.
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 Maine
- Office of the Maine Attorney General: (207) 626-8800 | maine.gov/ag
- Maine Adult Protective Services: (800) 624-8404
- 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)