Understanding the Rise of “Hi, How Are You?” Scams
If you’ve encountered an unsolicited “Hi, how are you?” message from someone you don’t know, it might not be as innocent as it seems. This seemingly benign greeting has become a digital bait, employed by cybercriminals to lure unsuspecting individuals into fraudulent investment schemes.
The Alarming Statistics
Data from Broker Chooser sheds light on the scale of this issue. Investment-related fraud now ranks as the fifth most common scam in the United States. In just the first half of 2025, over 66,700 incidents were reported, resulting in staggering losses exceeding $3.5 billion. Among these scams, cryptocurrencies stand out as a primary target for scammers. Reports indicate that they capitalized on digital assets, pocketing around $939 million during this timeframe — a significant increase of $261 million compared to the previous year.
Financial Impacts on Victims
The financial repercussions of these scams are devastating. The median loss per victim surged to $10,000 in early 2025, marking an increase from 2024’s median of $9,300. This figure is particularly troubling, as it represents the highest median loss across all scam categories — a staggering 376% higher than the second most damaging category, which is business and job fraud.
Geographic Disparities in Scams
Certain states are bearing the brunt of these fraudulent activities more than others. Nevada has emerged as the hardest hit, logging 211 cases per million residents and reporting more than $40.4 million in losses. Arizona closely follows, with 202 cases per million and losses surpassing $95.1 million. Florida, holding the third position, recorded 185 reports per million residents and alarmingly high losses of $241 million.
The Psychology Behind the Scams
The success of these scams lies in their ability to exploit human psychology. They often target individuals eager for quick financial gains, particularly in volatile markets like cryptocurrency. Scammers adeptly create a façade of legitimacy and urgency, coaxing unsuspecting victims into investing before they realize the risks involved.
Recognition and Prevention
Awareness is the first step in combating these scams. It’s essential to remain vigilant regarding unsolicited messages, especially those that peak curiosity or prompt emotional responses. If you receive a suspicious message, report it to your service provider or local authorities rather than responding.
The Community Response
As these scams proliferate, community organizations and financial institutions are working to raise awareness. Educational programs are being developed to equip individuals with the knowledge necessary to identify and respond to scams effectively. Additionally, online platforms are tightening regulations to combat the growing threat of fraud.
Understanding the dynamics of these scams is crucial for safeguarding your financial health. Awareness and education are key to protecting oneself from the rising tide of investment-related fraud. Taking proactive steps can help you dodge the trap of these cunning cybercriminals.
