COLUMBUS, Ohio (WKBN) - The Ohio Department of Commerce (ODC) Division of Financial Institutions is urging consumers to be aware of imposter scams.

Reports of imposter scams in Ohio are up nearly 47% since last year, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

Reports from adults aged 60 and over who lost more than $100,000 increased by more than 800% in the past five years, jumping from $55 million in 2020 to $445 million in 2024.

"The rise in imposter scams is truly alarming, and the reality is that anyone can fall victim to these sophisticated schemes," said Kevin Allard, superintendent of the Division of Financial Institutions. "These criminals are skilled at creating scenarios that can catch even the most cautious person off guard."

The scams involve criminals pretending to be some

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