New data shows scams in Georgia are hitting harder than ever. In 2024, the average Georgian received almost one robocall every day, and earlier this year the state led the nation with 437 fraud reports per 100,000 people. Last year alone, consumers reported 65,000 scams, costing an estimated $2.1 million per 1,000 residents.

Experts say scammers are ramping up during moments of anxiety — Medicare enrollment, tax season, holiday deliveries — and the recent government shutdown didn’t help. Younger people are increasingly at risk too, thanks to unregulated apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, and instant-payment platforms where one bad click can drain an account.

But there are ways to stay protected. Law-enforcement agencies, consumer advocates, and scam-blocking services like Nomorobo are urging people to stay alert, share new scam alerts with friends and family, and use reputable call- and text-screening apps to reduce risk.