Protecting Connecticut Seniors from Romance Scams
Romance scams are among the most emotionally devastating forms of fraud targeting older adults. In 2025, 111 Connecticut 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 Connecticut Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable
Connecticut’s demographics and culture create specific risk factors for romance scams:
- High-value targets: Connecticut has one of the highest median household incomes in the nation, making its seniors prime targets for investment and financial fraud
- Aging population: Connecticut has the 6th-oldest median age in the country, with a rapidly growing population of residents over 65
- Financial hub proximity: Proximity to New York City financial markets means Connecticut seniors are more likely to be targeted by sophisticated investment scams
- Mixed urban-rural divide: While cities like Hartford and New Haven have resources, many Connecticut seniors in smaller towns lack access to in-person tech help
- High cost of living: Connecticut’s expensive cost of living means seniors on fixed incomes feel greater pressure from financial losses
5-Year Trend: Romance Scam Losses in Connecticut (2021–2025)
| Year | Victims (60+) | Losses | YoY Change |
| 2021 | 58 | $1.6M | — |
| 2022 | 69 | $2.6M | +64% |
| 2023 | 57 | $4.8M | +84% |
| 2024 | 99 | $2.2M | -53% |
| 2025 | 111 | $2.8M | +27% |
| 5-Year Total | 394 | $14.1M | +78% |
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Annual Reports, 2021–2025. Victims and losses for Connecticut residents aged 60 and older.
Connecticut ranks #41 nationally in romance scam losses targeting seniors, with $2.8 million lost in 2025 across 111 reported victims. Year over year, losses changed +27%, outperforming the national average of +46%. Over the full five-year period, romance scam losses in Connecticut grew +78%.
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 Connecticut
- Office of the Connecticut Attorney General: (860) 808-5318 | portal.ct.gov/ag
- Connecticut Protective Services for the Elderly: (888) 385-4225
- 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)