Protecting Vermont Seniors from Romance Scams
Romance scams are among the most emotionally devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. In 2025, 21 Vermont 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 Vermont Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Vermont’s demographics and culture create specific risk factors for romance scams:
- Oldest state in New England: Vermont has one of the highest median ages in the country at 42.7, with a rapidly growing 65+ population
- Extreme rural isolation: Vermont is the second-least populated state, with many seniors living in small mountain towns far from any consumer protection office
- Harsh winters: Vermont’s long, severe winters keep seniors homebound for 4-5 months, dramatically increasing phone and internet exposure to scams
- Limited broadband: Many rural Vermont communities, especially in the Northeast Kingdom, lack reliable internet, reducing access to online fraud education
- Independent culture: Vermont’s fiercely self-reliant culture means seniors may resist asking for help or reporting that they’ve been victimized
5-Year Trend: Romance Scam Losses in Vermont (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 22 | $448K | — |
| 2022 | 15 | $271K | -39% |
| 2023 | 22 | $838K | +209% |
| 2024 | 25 | $605K | -28% |
| 2025 | 21 | $476K | -21% |
| 5-Year Total | 105 | $2.6M | +6% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for Vermont residents aged 60 and older.
Vermont ranks #49 nationally in romance scam losses targeting seniors, with $476,060 lost in 2025 across 21 reported victims. Year over year, losses changed -21%, outperforming the national average of +46%. Over the full five-year period, romance scam losses in Vermont grew +6%.
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 Vermont
- Office of the Vermont Attorney General: (802) 828-3173 | ago.vermont.gov
- Vermont Adult Protective Services: (800) 564-1612
- 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)