Federal Trade Commission

January 22, 2003

National and State Trends 

in Fraud and Identity Theft

January – December 2002

Source: Data from Consumer Sentinel 

and the Identity Theft Data Clearinghouse 
Report Subject Page No. 

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Sentinel Complaint Trends

Three-Year Trend for Sentinel Complaints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Sentinel Data Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Sentinel Top Complaint Categories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Fraud Complaint Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Internet-Related Fraud Complaint Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Three-Year Trend for Identity Theft Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

How Identity Theft Victims’ Information Is Misused . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Identity Theft Victim Age Data and Law Enforcement Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Fraud Complaints and Identity Theft Victims by State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Detailed State Trends (one page per state and the District of Columbia) . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-63 

Each detailed state report contains the following information:

Fraud Complaints

ß Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Consumers

ß Amount Paid Reported by Consumers

ß Top Consumer City Locations for Fraud Complaints

Identity Theft Complaints

ß Complaints by Identity Theft Type

ß Top Identity Theft Victim City Locations

Sentinel Fraud Complaints and Identity Theft Victims Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Appendices

Appendix A: Description of the Consumer Sentinel Network

Appendix B: Other Consumer Sentinel Data Contributors 

Appendix C: Description of the Consumer Sentinel Complaint Categories

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Federal Trade Commission Page 1 of 64 Created January 22, 2003
Between January and December 2002, Consumer 

Sentinel, the complaint database developed and 

maintained by the FTC, received 380,103 consumer fraud 

and identity theft complaints. Consumers reported losses 

from fraud of more than $343 million. The reports in this 

booklet analyze those complaints. 

Consumer Sentinel collects information about consumer 

fraud and identity theft from the FTC and over 100 other 

organizations and makes it available to law enforcement 

partners across the nation and throughout the world for 

use in their investigations. Launched in 1997, the Sentinel 

database now includes nearly a million complaints. Some 

data transfers from other organizations contain complaints 

from previous months and have not yet been received. As 

a result, the total number of complaints reported may 

change. 

For more information about Consumer Sentinel, as well 

as information about consumer fraud and identity theft, 

visit the Consumer Sentinel public website at 

www.consumer.gov/sentinel. If you represent a law 

enforcement organization, call (202) 326-3196 or e-mail 

sentinel@ftc.gov for membership information.

INTRODUCTION

Federal Trade Commission Page 2 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

U.S. 

Secret Service

Federal Bureau 

of Investigation

U.S. Postal 

Inspection Service

Social Security 

Administration

Internet Fraud 

Complaint Center

National Association 

of Attorneys General

National Consumers 

League

Australian Competition 

and Consumer 

Commission

Better Business 

Bureaus

Canada’s 

Phonebusters

Consumer Sentinel 

Leading Partners & Data Contributors

www.consumer.gov/sentinel www.econsumer.gov www.consumer.gov/ military

The Consumer Sentinel Network

Federal Trade 

Commission

Department of 

Defense

www.consumer.gov/ idtheft
78%

22%

61%

39%

57%

43%

0

100

200

300

400

CY 2000 CY 2001 CY 2002

69%

31%

58%

42%

53%

47%

0

100

200

300

400

CY 2000 CY 2001 CY 2002

Sentinel Complaints by Calendar Year1

- Identity Theft Complaints

Fraud Complaints by Calendar Year2 

(Excluding Identity Theft)

139,007

220,089

380,103

107,890

133,891

218,284

1Percentages are based on the total number of Consumer Sentinel complaints by calendar year.

(in thousands) (in thousands)

- Fraud Complaints

107,890

133,891

31,117

86,198

218,284

161,819

Internet-Related 

Fraud Complaints3

Other Fraud 

Complaints

2Percentages are based on the total number of Consumer Sentinel fraud complaints by calendar year. 

3For a definition of Internet-related complaints, see page 7.

Federal Trade Commission Page 3 of 64 Created January 22, 2003
Sentinel Data Contributors1

January 1 – December 31, 2002

1Percentages are based on the total number of Consumer Sentinel complaints (380,103) received between 

January 1 and December 31, 2002. The type of complaints provided by the organization is indicated in 

parentheses.

2For a list of other organizations contributing to Consumer Sentinel, see Appendix B.

FTC - 

"877 FTC HELP" 

(Fraud)

11%

FTC - 

Web Complaints 

(Fraud)

FTC - 12%

Web Complaints 

(IDT)

7%

Internet Fraud 

Complaint Center 

(Fraud)

16%

Better Business 

Bureaus (Fraud)

2%

Social Security 

Administration 

(IDT)

6% Canada's 

PhoneBusters 

(Fraud)

7%

National Consumers 

League (Fraud)

8%

Other Organizations 

(IDT & Fraud)

1%

FTC - 

"877 ID THEFT" 

(IDT)

30%

Federal Trade Commission Page 4 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

2
Sentinel Top Complaint Categories1

January 1 – December 31, 2002

Identity Theft

43%

Business Opps and 

Work-at-Home Plans

3%

Prizes/Sweepstakes 

and Lotteries

4%

Shop-at-Home/

Catalog Sales

5%

Foreign Money Offers

4%

Advance-Fee Loans and 

Credit Protection

5%

Internet Services and 

Computer Complaints

6%

Internet Auctions

13%

Telephone Services

2%

Health Care

2%

Magazines and

Buyers Club

2%

Others

11%

1Percentages are based on the total number of Consumer Sentinel complaints (380,103) received between 

January 1 and December 31, 2002. For Sentinel category descriptions, see Appendix C.

Federal Trade Commission Page 5 of 64 Created January 22, 2003
1Average is based on the total number of consumers who reported amount paid (172,887). Thirty-three consumers reported an 

amount paid of $1 million or more.

2Median is the middle number in a set of numbers so that half the numbers have values that are greater than the median and half 

have values that are less. Calculation of the median excludes complaints with amount paid reported as $0.

Fraud Complaints by Reported Amount Paid 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Total Number of Fraud Complaints & Amount Paid 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

3Percentages are based on the total number of consumers who reported amount 

paid (172,887). 79% of consumers reported this information.

Fraud Complaints

5Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints where 

company’s method of initial contact was reported by consumers (167,955). 

77% of consumers reported this information.

29%

25%

23%

13%

10%

Internet - Web

Site/Others

Internet - E-mail

Phone

Mail

Others

3%

19%

25%

25%

16%

7%

6%

19 and Under

20-29

30-39

40-49

50-59

60-69

70 and Over

6Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints where 

consumers reported their age (140,763). 64% of consumers reported their age. 

Company’s Method of Contacting Consumers5

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Fraud Complaints by Consumer Age6

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Total No. of 

Complaints

Complaints 

Reporting 

Amount Paid

Percentage of 

Complaints Reporting 

Amount Paid

Amount Paid 

Reported

Average 

Amount Paid1

Median 

Amount Paid2

218,284 172,887 79% $343,509,372 $1,987 $218

Federal Trade Commission Page 6 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

18%

3%

22%

35%

16%

2%

5%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

Bank

Account

Debit

Cash/Cash

Advance

Check Credit

Cards

Money

Order

Telephone

Bill

Wire

Transfer

Methods of Payment Reported by Consumers4

January 1 – December 31, 2002

4Percentages are based on the total number of consumers who reported the method 

of payment (73,247). 34% of consumers reported this information.

Amount Paid

$0 24%

$1 - 25 8%

$26 - 50 10%

$51 - 75 5%

$76 - 100 4%

$101 - 250 15%

$251 - 500 10%

$501 - 1,000 9%

$1,001 - 5,000 12%

More than $5,000 3%

Percentage3
1Average is based on the total number of consumers who reported amount paid (94,502). Fourteen consumers reported an 

amount paid of $1 million or more.

2Median is the middle number in a set of numbers so that half the numbers have values that are greater than the median 

and half have values that are less. Calculation of the median excludes complaints with amount paid reported as $0.

Methods of Payment Reported by Consumers4

January 1 – December 31, 2002

Internet-Related Fraud Complaints 

By Reported Amount Paid 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Total Number of Internet-Related Fraud Complaints & Amount Paid 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

3Percentages are based on the total number of consumers who reported 

amount paid (94,502). 92% of consumers reported this information.

4Percentages are based on the total number of consumers who reported the method 

of payment (39,496). 39% of consumers reported this information.

25%

16%

5%

2%

3%

23%

27%

19 and Under

20-29

30-39

40-49

50-59

60-69

70 and Over

6Percentages are based on the total number of Internet-related fraud complaints where 

consumers reported their age (62,791). 61% of consumers reported their age. 

Internet-Related Fraud Complaints By Consumer Age6

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Definition of “Internet-related” : A fraud complaint is 

“Internet-related” if: it concerns an Internet product or 

service, the company initially contacts the consumer via 

the Internet, or the consumer responds via the Internet.

12%

2%

17%

40%

23%

1%

4%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

Bank

Account

Debit

Cash/Cash

Advance

Check Credit

Cards

Money

Order

Telephone

Bill

Wire

Transfer

Total No. of 

Complaints

Complaints 

Reporting 

Amount Paid

Percentage of 

Complaints Reporting 

Amount Paid

Amount Paid 

Reported

Average 

Amount Paid1

Median 

Amount Paid2

102,517 94,502 92% $122,364,090 $1,295 $172

Internet-Related

Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 7 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Top Products/Services for 

Internet-Related Fraud Complaints5

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Internet Auctions 50% 

Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 13 

Internet Access Services 11 

Foreign Money Offers 5 

Internet Info & Adult Services 5 

Business Opportunities 3 

Computers 2 

Internet Web Site Design 2 

Others 9

5Percentages are based on the total number of Internet-related complaints 

(102,517) received between January 1 and December 31, 2002.

Amount Paid

$0 21%

$1 - 25 11%

$26 - 50 10%

$51 - 75 6%

$76 - 100 5%

$101 - 250 14%

$251 - 500 11%

$501 - 1,000 10%

$1,001 - 5,000 11%

More than $5,000 2%

Percentage3
0

50

100

150

200

CY 2000 CY 2001 CY 2002

1Percentages are based on the total number of identity theft records by calendar year.

(74%)

(74%)

- Request for Information

- Complaints

(70%)

(30%)

(26%)

(26%)

Total Identity Theft Records 

by Calendar Year

13,677

31,117

86,198

31,011

56,895

161,819

Federal Trade Commission Page 8 of 64 Created January 22, 2003 (in thousands)

1
How Victims’ Information Is Misused1

Total Number of Identity Theft Victims = 161,819

January 1 – December 31, 2002

Credit Card Fraud: 42%

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

New Accounts 24.4%

Existing Accounts 12.1

Unspecified 5.4

Employment-Related Fraud: 9% 

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

Employment-Related Fraud 9.3%

Government Documents or Benefits Fraud: 8%

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

Driver’s License Issued / Forged 3.0%

Fraudulent Tax Return 1.9

Social Security Card Issued / Forged 1.7

Gov’t Benefits Applied / Rec’d 0.8

Other Gov’t Docs Issued / Forged 0.3

Unspecified 0.1

Loan Fraud: 6%

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

Personal / Business Loan 2.6%

Auto Loan / Lease 2.1

Real Estate Loan 0.9

Unspecified 0.5

Other Identity Theft Fraud: 16%

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

Other 9.1%

Illegal / Criminal 2.0

Medical 1.7

Internet / E-mail 1.4 

Apartment / House Rented 1.0

Bankruptcy 0.4

Securities / Other Investments 0.2

Bank Fraud: 17%

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

Existing Accounts 8.1%

New Accounts 3.7

Electronic Fund Transfer 3.1

Unspecified 2.0

Phone or Utilities Fraud: 22%

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

Wireless - New 10.5%

Telephone - New 5.2

Utilities - New 3.0

Unauthorized Charges 

to Existing Accounts 0.7

Unspecified 2.2

Attempted Identity Theft: 8%

Theft Subtypes Percent of All Victims

Attempted Identity Theft 8.3%

1Percentages are based on the 161,819 total victims reporting. P ercentages add to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. All victims reported experiencing at least one type of identity theft. 

Federal Trade Commission Page 9 of 64 Created January 22, 2003
0

10

20

30

Under 18 18-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60 and Over

2% of Victims Notified a 

Police Department and 

Did Not Indicate if a 

Report Was Taken

53% of Victims 

Did Not Notify Any 

Police Department

9% of Victims 

Notified a 

Police Department 

and a Report 

Was NOT Taken

36% of Victims 

Notified a 

Police Department 

and a Report 

Was Taken

Law Enforcement Contact2

January 1 – December 31, 2002

2Percentages are based on the 131,746 victims who indicated whether they had notified a police department. This chart represents

95% of the victims who contacted the Federal Trade Commission directly. 

Identity Theft Complaints by Victim Age1

January 1 – December 31, 2002

1Percentages are based on the 130,917 victims who provided their age. This chart represents 94% of the victims who contacted the

Federal Trade Commission directly.

7%

(65 And Over) 

Federal Trade Commission Page 10 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

22%

13%

26% 27%

2%

11%

4%

(60-64) 
FRAUD COMPLAINTS BY CONSUMER STATE IDENTITY THEFT VICTIMS BY STATE

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Note: Per 100,000 unit of population estimates are based on the 2000 U.S. Census population figures. 

Rank Victim State

Victims 

Per 100,000 

Population

1 District of Columbia 123.1 704

2 California 90.7 30,738

3 Arizona 88.0 4,517

4 Nevada 85.3 1,705

5 Texas 68.9 14,357

6 Florida 68.2 10,898

7 New York 66.9 12,698

8 Washington 66.1 3,894

9 Maryland 66.0 3,497

10 Oregon 64.3 2,200

11 Colorado 61.8 2,660

12 Illinois 60.2 7,474

13 Georgia 57.5 4,709

14 New Jersey 57.1 4,802

15 Hawaii 48.9 593

16 Virginia 48.0 3,395

17 Michigan 46.7 4,640

18 Missouri 45.7 2,558

19 New Mexico 45.2 822

20 Indiana 43.0 2,612

21 North Carolina 42.0 3,383

22 Pennsylvania 41.4 5,080

23 Massachusetts 40.9 2,597

24 Connecticut 40.6 1,383

25 Utah 39.7 886

26 Alaska 39.6 248

27 Rhode Island 39.2 411

28 Delaware 38.7 303

29 Minnesota 38.1 1,873

30 Ohio 35.8 4,065

31 Tennessee 34.5 1,962

32 Kansas 33.2 893

33 Wisconsin 33.1 1,777

34 Oklahoma 32.3 1,115

35 South Carolina 30.9 1,239

36 Arkansas 30.1 806

37 Louisiana 29.7 1,329

38 Alabama 28.7 1,276

39 Mississippi 28.6 814

40 New Hampshire 28.2 349

41 Idaho 27.9 361

42 Nebraska 26.5 454

43 Wyoming 24.9 123

44 Montana 24.5 221

45 Maine 24.0 306

46 Kentucky 22.8 923

47 West Virginia 19.9 360

48 Iowa 18.9 552

49 Vermont 17.6 107

50 South Dakota 16.4 124

51 North Dakota 12.6 81

Number of 

Victms

Federal Trade Commission Page 11 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Rank Consumer State

Complaints 

Per 100,000 

Population

1 District of Columbia 147.5 844

2 Alaska 139.2 873

3 Hawaii 91.7 1,111

4 Washington 90.6 5,341

5 Colorado 88.8 3,821

6 Nevada 85.1 1,700

7 Arizona 84.0 4,309

8 New Hampshire 83.2 1,028

9 Virginia 82.1 5,810

10 Florida 80.2 12,816

11 Oregon 80.1 2,741

12 Montana 79.8 720

13 California 79.4 26,908

14 Maryland 78.0 4,131

15 Vermont 77.2 470

16 Delaware 73.3 574

17 Wyoming 72.3 357

18 Utah 70.8 1,581

19 Connecticut 69.5 2,368

20 New Mexico 66.8 1,216

21 Pennsylvania 65.5 8,039

22 Massachusetts 65.5 4,156

23 Ohio 65.4 7,425

24 Idaho 65.1 843

25 New Jersey 65.0 5,472

26 Wisconsin 63.1 3,383

27 Nebraska 62.9 1,076

28 North Carolina 62.4 5,019

29 Missouri 62.1 3,472

30 Rhode Island 61.8 648

31 Maine 61.8 788

32 Indiana 60.8 3,695

33 Kansas 59.7 1,604

34 New York 59.2 11,241

35 Georgia 59.1 4,838

36 North Dakota 59.0 379

37 Texas 59.0 12,295

38 Illinois 58.8 7,303

39 West Virginia 58.8 1,063

40 Tennessee 57.8 3,290

41 Michigan 57.8 5,742

42 Alabama 56.1 2,497

43 Minnesota 55.8 2,743

44 Oklahoma 54.7 1,889

45 South Carolina 54.4 2,183

46 Iowa 52.6 1,540

47 Kentucky 50.9 2,059

48 South Dakota 49.9 377

49 Arkansas 46.5 1,242

50 Louisiana 45.7 2,042

51 Mississippi 35.9 1,022

Number of 

Complaints
Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Consumers

Amount Paid Reported by Consumers

Top Consumer City Locations for Fraud Complaints

Detailed State Information 

(one page per state and the District of Columbia)

Identity Theft Types Reported by Victims

Top Identity Theft Victim City Locations

Fraud Complaints Identity Theft Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 12 of 64 Created January 22, 2003
ALABAMA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Alabama consumers (2,006).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Alabama Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Alabama Consumers = 2,497

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Alabama consumers (2,497).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Alabama Consumers = 3,773

Top Alabama Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 13 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Alabama Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

2,497 $1,840,159 2,006 80% $917

Identity Theft Types Reported by Alabama Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Alabama Victims = 1,276

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 590 46%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 251 20%

3 Bank Fraud 195 15%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 110 9%

5 Loan Fraud 91 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 60 5%

Other 202 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 122 10%

Top Alabama 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

1Percentages are based on the 1,276 victims reporting from Alabama. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Alabama reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Victim City No. of Victims

Birmingham 189

Mobile 84

Montgomery 83

Huntsville 55

Tuscaloosa 21

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Birmingham 311

Huntsville 153

Montgomery 131

Mobile 124

Tuscaloosa 72

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 490 20%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 361 14%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 331 13%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 213 9%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 207 8%
ALASKA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Alaska consumers (707).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Alaska Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Alaska Consumers = 873

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Alaska consumers (873).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Alaska Consumers = 1,121

Top Alaska Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 14 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Alaska Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

873 $647,187 707 81% $915

Identity Theft Types Reported by Alaska Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Alaska Victims = 248

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 123 50%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 49 20%

3 Bank Fraud 37 15%

4 Loan Fraud 21 8%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 13 5%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 12 5%

Other 46 19%

Attempted Identity Theft 18 7%

1Percentages are based on the 248 victims reporting from Alaska. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 24% of victims from Alaska reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Alaska 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Anchorage 319

Fairbanks 59

Wasilla 35

Juneau 33

Eagle River 26

North Pole 26

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 229 26%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 136 16%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 75 9%

4 Foreign Money Offers 74 8%

5 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 72 8%

Victim City No. of Victims

Anchorage 77

Fairbanks 19

Juneau 14

Eagle River 10

Wasilla 8
ARIZONA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Arizona consumers (3,537).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Arizona Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Arizona Consumers = 4,309

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Arizona consumers (4,309).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Arizona Consumers = 8,826

Top Arizona Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 15 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Arizona Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

4,309 $6,309,593 3,537 82% $1,784

Identity Theft Types Reported by Arizona Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Arizona Victims = 4,517

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,632 36%

2 Employment-Related Fraud 921 20%

3 Bank Fraud 784 17%

4 Phone or Utilities Fraud 777 17%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 352 8%

6 Loan Fraud 261 6%

Other 738 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 329 7%

1Percentages are based on the 4,517 victims reporting from Arizona. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Arizona reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Arizona 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Phoenix 1,268

Tucson 616

Mesa 361

Glendale 338

Scottsdale 296

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 874 20%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 419 10%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 387 9%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 324 8%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 316 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Phoenix 919

Tucson 613

Mesa 383

Scottsdale 327

Glendale 216
ARKANSAS 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Arkansas consumers (1,006).

Fraud Complaints from Arkansas Consumers = 1,242

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Arkansas consumers (1,242).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Arkansas Consumers = 2,048

Top Arkansas Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 16 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Arkansas Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,242 $1,324,380 1,006 81% $1,316

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Arkansas Consumers Identity Theft Types Reported by Arkansas Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Arkansas Victims = 806

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 330 41%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 186 23%

3 Bank Fraud 141 17%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 65 8%

5 Employment-Related Fraud 61 8%

6 Loan Fraud 53 7%

Other 133 17%

Attempted Identity Theft 46 6%

1Percentages are based on the 806 victims reporting from Arkansas. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 21% of victims from Arkansas reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Arkansas 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Little Rock 128

Hot Springs 21

Benton 18

Pine Bluff 16

Conway 13

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 291 23%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 227 18%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 145 12%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 101 8%

5 Business Opps and Work-at-Home Plans 94 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Little Rock 167

Hot Springs 80

Fayetteville 42

Jonesboro 38

Conway 36
CALIFORNIA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by California consumers (21,650). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$1.5 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for California Consumers

Fraud Complaints from California Consumers = 26,908

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from California consumers (26,908).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from California Consumers = 57,646

Top California Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 17 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by California Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

26,908 $40,185,179 21,650 80% $1,856

Identity Theft Types Reported by California Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from California Victims = 30,738

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 12,066 39%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 6,979 23%

3 Bank Fraud 5,530 18%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 3,674 12%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 2,683 9%

6 Loan Fraud 1,803 6%

Other 4,647 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 2,481 8%

1Percentages are based on the 30,738 victims reporting from California. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from California reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top California 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Los Angeles 2,609

San Diego 1,021

San Francisco 1,003

Sacramento 693

San Jose 626

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 6,725 25%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 3,343 12%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 2,471 9%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 2,315 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 2,194 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Los Angeles 1,515

San Diego 1,151

San Francisco 1,116

San Jose 794

Sacramento 512
COLORADO 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Colorado consumers (3,098). One consumer reported an amount paid of $1 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Colorado Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Colorado Consumers = 3,821

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Colorado consumers (3,821).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Colorado Consumers = 6,481

Top Colorado Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 18 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Colorado Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

3,821 $4,409,401 3,098 81% $1,423

Identity Theft Types Reported by Colorado Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Colorado Victims = 2,660

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 937 35%

2 Bank Fraud 559 21%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 506 19%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 350 13%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 224 8%

6 Loan Fraud 154 6%

Other 494 19%

Attempted Identity Theft 180 7%

1Percentages are based on the 2,660 victims reporting from Colorado. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Colorado reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Colorado 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Denver 551

Colorado Springs 270

Aurora 206

Littleton 125

Lakewood 103

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 871 23%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 437 11%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 372 10%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 330 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 303 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Denver 517

Colorado Springs 481

Aurora 252

Littleton 182

Boulder 155
CONNECTICUT 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Connecticut consumers (1,935).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Connecticut Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Connecticut Consumers = 2,368

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Connecticut consumers (2,368).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Connecticut Consumers = 3,751

Top Connecticut Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 19 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Connecticut Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

2,368 $2,028,863 1,935 82% $1,049

Identity Theft Types Reported by Connecticut Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Connecticut Victims = 1,383

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 645 47%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 310 22%

3 Bank Fraud 182 13%

4 Loan Fraud 86 6%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 84 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 63 5%

Other 211 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 144 10%

1Percentages are based on the 1,383 victims reporting from Connecticut. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Connecticut 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Connecticut 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Hartford 117

Waterbury 65

New Haven 63

Bridgeport 59

Stamford 58

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 613 26%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 345 15%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 226 10%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 223 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 183 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Hartford 144

Stamford 101

Bridgeport 80

Norwalk 69

New Haven 65
DELAWARE 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Delaware consumers (466). One consumer reported an amount paid of half a million 

dollars.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Delaware Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Delaware Consumers = 574

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Delaware consumers (574).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Delaware Consumers = 877

Top Delaware Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 20 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Delaware Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

574 $1,348,349 466 81% $2,893

Identity Theft Types Reported by Delaware Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Delaware Victims = 303

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 122 40%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 63 21%

3 Bank Fraud 50 17%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 21 7%

5 Loan Fraud 21 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 17 6%

Other 48 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 31 10%

1Percentages are based on the 303 victims reporting from Delaware. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 19% of victims from Delaware reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Delaware 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Wilmington 84

Newark 50

Bear 21

Dover 17

New Castle 17

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 133 23%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 72 13%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 67 12%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 55 10%

5 Business Opps and Work-at-Home Plans 40 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Wilmington 150

Newark 92

Dover 39

New Castle 39

Bear 27
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by District of Columbia consumers (620).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for 

District of Columbia Consumers

Fraud Complaints from District of Columbia Consumers = 844

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from District of Columbia 

consumers (844).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from District of Columbia Consumers = 1,548

Federal Trade Commission Page 21 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by District of Columbia Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

844 $421,862 620 73% $680

Identity Theft Types Reported by District of Columbia Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from 

District of Columbia Victims = 704

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 313 44%

2 Bank Fraud 139 20%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 133 19%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 69 10%

5 Loan Fraud 48 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 24 3%

Other 124 18%

Attempted Identity Theft 57 8%

1Percentages are based on the 704 victims reporting from the Dist rict of Columbia. 

Percentages add to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from the 

District of Columbia reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 167 20%

2 Foreign Money Offers 110 13%

3 Internet Auctions 96 11%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 84 10%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 60 7%
FLORIDA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Florida consumers (10,202). Two consumers reported an amount paid in the 

millions ($25 million and over $1 million, respectively).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Florida Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Florida Consumers = 12,816

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Florida consumers (12,816).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Florida Consumers = 23,714

Top Florida Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 22 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Florida Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

12,816 $39,991,143 10,202 80% $3,920

Identity Theft Types Reported by Florida Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Florida Victims = 10,898

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 5,188 48%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 2,167 20%

3 Bank Fraud 1,854 17%

4 Loan Fraud 768 7%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 744 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 630 6%

Other 1,650 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 993 9%

1Percentages are based on the 10,898 victims reporting from Florida. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Florida reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Florida 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Miami 1,836

Orlando 595

Tampa 462

Jacksonville 404

Fort Lauderdale 282

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 2,704 21%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 1,599 12%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 1,298 10%

4 Foreign Money Offers 1,269 10%

5 Business Opps and Work-at-Home Plans 1,004 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Miami 1,087

Tampa 543

Orlando 539

Jacksonville 490

St. Petersburg 274
GEORGIA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Georgia consumers (3,705). One consumer reported an amount paid of $2.5 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Georgia Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Georgia Consumers = 4,838

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Georgia consumers (4,838).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Georgia Consumers = 9,547

Top Georgia Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 23 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Georgia Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

4,838 $7,761,922 3,705 77% $2,095

Identity Theft Types Reported by Georgia Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Georgia Victims = 4,709

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 2,044 43%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 970 21%

3 Bank Fraud 942 20%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 355 8%

5 Loan Fraud 353 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 218 5%

Other 782 17%

Attempted Identity Theft 436 9%

1Percentages are based on the 4,709 victims reporting from Georgia. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Georgia reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Georgia 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Atlanta 817

Marietta 248

Decatur 143

Alpharetta 123

Lawrenceville 123

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,034 21%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 536 11%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 535 11%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 371 8%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 369 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Atlanta 652

Marietta 220

Lawrenceville 133

Alpharetta 101

Columbus 101
HAWAII 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Hawaii consumers (939).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Hawaii Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Hawaii Consumers = 1,111

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Hawaii consumers (1,111).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Hawaii Consumers = 1,704

Top Hawaii Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 24 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Hawaii Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,111 $1,316,122 939 85% $1,402

Identity Theft Types Reported by Hawaii Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Hawaii Victims = 593

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 300 51%

2 Bank Fraud 150 25%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 145 24%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 36 6%

5 Loan Fraud 31 5%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 13 2%

Other 91 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 40 7%

1Percentages are based on the 593 victims reporting from Hawaii. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 28% of victims from Hawaii reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Hawaii 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Honolulu 229

Kailua 34

Aiea 30

Mililani 29

Waipahu 28

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 372 33%

2 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 106 10%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 99 9%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 97 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 85 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Honolulu 402

Hilo 50

Aiea 50

Kaneohe 50

Kailua 47
IDAHO 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Idaho consumers (707).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Idaho Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Idaho Consumers = 843

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Idaho consumers (843).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Idaho Consumers = 1,204

Top Idaho Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 25 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Idaho Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

843 $916,264 707 84% $1,296

Identity Theft Types Reported by Idaho Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Idaho Victims = 361

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 151 42%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 66 18%

3 Bank Fraud 44 12%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 37 10%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 33 9%

6 Loan Fraud 24 7%

Other 80 22%

Attempted Identity Theft 20 6%

1Percentages are based on the 361 victims reporting from Idaho. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Idaho reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Idaho 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 262 31%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 100 12%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 79 9%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 72 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 67 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Boise 161

Pocatello 48

Idaho Falls 45

Nampa 43

Coeur d'Alene 41

Victim City No. of Victims

Boise 84

Nampa 26

Idaho Falls 21

Coeur d'Alene 17

Meridian 16
ILLINOIS 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Illinois consumers (6,073).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Illinois Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Illinois Consumers = 7,303

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Illinois consumers (7,303).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Illinois Consumers = 14,777

Top Illinois Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 26 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Illinois Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

7,303 $6,775,802 6,073 83% $1,116

Identity Theft Types Reported by Illinois Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Illinois Victims = 7,474

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 3,129 42%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 1,929 26%

3 Bank Fraud 1,099 15%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 752 10%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 626 8%

6 Loan Fraud 478 6%

Other 1,095 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 586 8%

1Percentages are based on the 7,474 victims reporting from Illinois. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 24% of victims from Illinoisreported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Illinois 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Chicago 2,730

Rockford 105

Aurora 102

Naperville 70

Joliet 69

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,972 27%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 820 11%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 675 9%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 654 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 538 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Chicago 1,513

Rockford 118

Naperville 112

Peoria 102

Springfield 100
INDIANA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Indiana consumers (3,076).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Indiana Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Indiana Consumers = 3,695

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Indiana consumers (3,695).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Indiana Consumers = 6,307

Top Indiana Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 27 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Indiana Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

3,695 $3,618,299 3,076 83% $1,176

Identity Theft Types Reported by Indiana Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Indiana Victims = 2,612

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Phone or Utilities Fraud 949 36%

2 Credit Card Fraud 872 33%

3 Bank Fraud 372 14%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 172 7%

5 Loan Fraud 153 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 139 5%

Other 464 18%

Attempted Identity Theft 192 7%

1Percentages are based on the 2,612 victims reporting from Indiana. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Indiana reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Indiana 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Indianapolis 585

Fort Wayne 167

South Bend 117

Gary 80

Evansville 50

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 975 26%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 445 12%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 353 10%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 326 9%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 264 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Indianapolis 633

Fort Wayne 179

Lafayette 129

Evansville 112

Bloomington 99
IOWA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Iowa consumers (1,285).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Iowa Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Iowa Consumers = 1,540

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Iowa consumers (1,540).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Iowa Consumers = 2,092

Top Iowa Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 28 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Iowa Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,540 $1,184,789 1,285 83% $922

Identity Theft Types Reported by Iowa Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Iowa Victims = 552

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 268 49%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 92 17%

3 Bank Fraud 91 16%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 47 9%

5 Loan Fraud 41 7%

6 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 34 6%

Other 80 14%

Attempted Identity Theft 50 9%

1Percentages are based on the 552 victims reporting from Iowa. P ercentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Iowa reported experiencing 

more than one type of identity theft. 

Top Iowa 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Des Moines 78

Cedar Rapids 37

Council Bluffs 21

Iowa City 20

Waterloo 18

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage 1

1 Internet Auctions 436 28%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 205 13%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 136 9%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 123 8%

5 Foreign Money Offers 100 6%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Des Moines 145

Cedar Rapids 108

Ames 78

Iowa City 66

Davenport 64
KANSAS 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Kansas consumers (1,337).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Kansas Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Kansas Consumers = 1,604

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Kansas consumers (1,604).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Kansas Consumers = 2,497

Top Kansas Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 29 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Kansas Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,604 $1,444,786 1,337 83% $1,081

Identity Theft Types Reported by Kansas Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Kansas Victims = 893

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 339 38%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 213 24%

3 Bank Fraud 193 22%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 69 8%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 58 6%

6 Loan Fraud 55 6%

Other 153 17%

Attempted Identity Theft 61 7%

1Percentages are based on the 893 victims reporting from Kansas. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Kansas reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Kansas 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Wichita 148

Overland Park 87

Kansas City 69

Topeka 59

Olathe 42

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 493 31%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 166 10%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 147 9%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 140 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 121 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Wichita 222

Overland Park 125

Topeka 104

Olathe 69

Shawnee 59
KENTUCKY 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Kentucky consumers (1,686).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Kentucky Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Kentucky Consumers = 2,059

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Kentucky consumers (2,059).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Kentucky Consumers = 2,982

Top Kentucky Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 30 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Kentucky Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

2,059 $1,684,928 1,686 82% $999

Identity Theft Types Reported by Kentucky Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Kentucky Victims = 923

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 401 43%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 216 23%

3 Bank Fraud 140 15%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 73 8%

5 Loan Fraud 56 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 37 4%

Other 183 20%

Attempted Identity Theft 64 7%

1Percentages are based on the 923 victims reporting from Kentucky. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Kentucky reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Kentucky 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Louisville 226

Lexington 68

Bowling Green 25

Florence 18

Owensboro 18

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 535 26%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 239 12%

3 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 230 11%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 227 11%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 159 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Louisville 385

Lexington 205

Owensboro 119

Bowling Green 39

Frankfort 31
LOUISIANA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Louisiana consumers (1,676).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Louisiana Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Louisiana Consumers = 2,042

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Louisiana consumers (2,042).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Louisiana Consumers = 3,371

Top Louisiana Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 31 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Louisiana Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

2,042 $1,712,116 1,676 82% $1,022

Identity Theft Types Reported by Louisiana Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Louisiana Victims = 1,329

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 604 45%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 290 22%

3 Bank Fraud 209 16%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 88 7%

5 Loan Fraud 82 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 63 5%

Other 199 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 120 9%

1Percentages are based on the 1,329 victims reporting from Louisiana. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 20% of victims from Louisiana reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Louisiana 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

New Orleans 248

Baton Rouge 113

Metairie 75

Shreveport 51

Lafayette 38

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 454 22%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 287 14%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 255 12%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 153 7%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 140 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

New Orleans 271

Baton Rouge 171

Shreveport 128

Metairie 119

Lafayette 70
MAINE 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Maine consumers (655).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Maine Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Maine Consumers = 788

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Maine consumers (788).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Maine Consumers = 1,094

Top Maine Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 32 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Maine Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

788 $520,617 655 83% $795

Identity Theft Types Reported by Maine Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Maine Victims = 306

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 147 48%

2 Bank Fraud 59 19%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 57 19%

4 Loan Fraud 26 8%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 20 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 8 3%

Other 61 20%

Attempted Identity Theft 22 7%

1Percentages are based on the 306 victims reporting from Maine. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 24% of victims from Maine reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Maine 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Portland 30

Auburn 9

Biddeford 7

Brunswick 7

Kennebunk 7

Windham 7

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 188 24%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 103 13%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 90 11%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 78 10%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 69 9%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Portland 79

Bangor 28

Liberty 18

Auburn 17

Augusta 17
MARYLAND 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Maryland consumers (3,276). One consumer report ed an amount paid of 

$1 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Maryland Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Maryland Consumers = 4,131

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Maryland consumers (4,131).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Maryland Consumers = 7,628

Top Maryland Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 33 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Maryland Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

4,131 $5,877,197 3,276 79% $1,794

Identity Theft Types Reported by Maryland Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Maryland Victims = 3,497

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,577 45%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 803 23%

3 Bank Fraud 551 16%

4 Loan Fraud 232 7%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 206 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 139 4%

Other 570 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 372 11%

1Percentages are based on the 3,497 victims reporting from Maryland. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Maryland reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Maryland 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 932 23%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 626 15%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 375 9%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 368 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 319 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Baltimore 508

Silver Spring 252

Rockville 164

Gaithersburg 141

Bethesda 124

Victim City No. of Victims

Baltimore 592

Silver Spring 232

Bethesda 95

Rockville 95

Laurel 86
MASSACHUSETTS 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Massachusetts consumers (3,289). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$1 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Massachusetts Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Massachusetts Consumers = 4,156

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Massachusetts consumers (4,156).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Massachusetts Consumers = 6,753

Top Massachusetts Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 34 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Massachusetts Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

4,156 $4,653,833 3,289 79% $1,415

Identity Theft Types Reported by Massachusetts Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Massachusetts Victims = 2,597

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,329 51%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 521 20%

3 Bank Fraud 357 14%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 172 7%

5 Loan Fraud 149 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 114 4%

Other 396 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 240 9%

1Percentages are based on the 2,597 victims reporting from Massachusetts. 

Percentages add to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from 

Massachusetts reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Massachusetts 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Boston 154

Springfield 74

Cambridge 61

Worcester 61

Dorchester 60

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,097 26%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 544 13%

3 Foreign Money Offers 337 8%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 329 8%

5 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 317 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Boston 215

Burlington 134

Cambridge 111

Worcester 90

Springfield 76
MICHIGAN 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Michigan consumers (4,721).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Michigan Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Michigan Consumers = 5,742

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Michigan consumers (5,742).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Michigan Consumers = 10,382

Top Michigan Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 35 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Michigan Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

5,742 $7,388,466 4,721 82% $1,565

Identity Theft Types Reported by Michigan Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Michigan Victims = 4,640

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,974 43%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 1,480 32%

3 Bank Fraud 651 14%

4 Loan Fraud 290 6%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 275 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 178 4%

Other 621 13%

Attempted Identity Theft 448 10%

1Percentages are based on the 4,640 victims reporting from Michigan. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Michigan reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Michigan 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Detroit 663

Grand Rapids 123

Lansing 97

Southfield 94

Dearborn 85

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,504 26%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 661 12%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 527 9%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 498 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 407 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Detroit 253

Grand Rapids 171

Lansing 162

Ann Arbor 150

Kalamazoo 148
MINNESOTA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Minnesota consumers (2,222). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$2 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Minnesota Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Minnesota Consumers = 2,743

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Minnesota consumers (2,743).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Minnesota Consumers = 4,616

Top Minnesota Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 36 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Minnesota Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

2,743 $4,665,654 2,222 81% $2,100

Identity Theft Types Reported by Minnesota Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Minnesota Victims = 1,873

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 794 42%

2 Bank Fraud 477 25%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 384 21%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 130 7%

5 Employment-Related Fraud 102 5%

6 Loan Fraud 88 5%

Other 248 13%

Attempted Identity Theft 171 9%

1Percentages are based on the 1,873 victims reporting from Minnesota. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 25% of victims from Minnesota reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Minnesota 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Minneapolis 239

St. Paul 211

Bloomington 42

Plymouth 38

Eagan 35

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 727 27%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 317 12%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 258 9%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 246 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 190 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Minneapolis 355

St. Paul 215

Rochester 67

Bloomington 57

Duluth 54
MISSISSIPPI 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Mississippi consumers (833).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Mississippi Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Mississippi Consumers = 1,022

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Mississippi consumers (1,022).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Mississippi Consumers = 1,836

Top Mississippi Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 37 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Mississippi Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,022 $1,169,836 833 82% $1,404

Identity Theft Types Reported by Mississippi Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Mississippi Victims = 814

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 375 46%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 174 21%

3 Bank Fraud 165 20%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 57 7%

5 Loan Fraud 56 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 37 5%

Other 124 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 65 8%

1Percentages are based on the 814 victims reporting from Mississippi. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Mississippi reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Mississippi 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Jackson 75

Brandon 34

Gulfport 31

Meridian 27

Biloxi 23

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 209 20%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 153 15%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 97 9%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 94 9%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 82 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Jackson 76

Biloxi 34

Gulfport 34

Hattiesburg 32

Meridian 26
MISSOURI 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Missouri consumers (2,891).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Missouri Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Missouri Consumers = 3,472

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Missouri consumers (3,472).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Missouri Consumers = 6,030

Top Missouri Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 38 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Missouri Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

3,472 $4,117,212 2,891 83% $1,424

Identity Theft Types Reported by Missouri Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Missouri Victims = 2,558

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,069 42%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 761 30%

3 Bank Fraud 455 18%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 175 7%

5 Loan Fraud 160 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 78 3%

Other 476 19%

Attempted Identity Theft 182 7%

1Percentages are based on the 2,558 victims reporting from Missouri. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 24% of victims from Missouri reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Missouri 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

St. Louis 626

Kansas City 306

Springfield 74

Independence 62

Florissant 58

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 903 26%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 431 12%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 372 11%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 264 8%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 249 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

St. Louis 513

Kansas City 302

Springfield 167

Columbia 107

St. Charles 102
MONTANA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Montana consumers (603). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$1 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Montana Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Montana Consumers = 720

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Montana consumers (720).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Montana Consumers = 941

Top Montana Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 39 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Montana Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

720 $1,676,926 603 84% $2,781

Identity Theft Types Reported by Montana Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Montana Victims = 221

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 98 44%

2 Bank Fraud 45 20%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 44 20%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 17 8%

5 Loan Fraud 17 8%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 12 5%

Other 42 19%

Attempted Identity Theft 12 5%

1Percentages are based on the 221 victims reporting from Montana. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 20% of victims from Montana reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Montana 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Billings 31

Missoula 18

Butte 17

Great Falls 13

Kalispell 12

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 146 20%

2 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 87 12%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 76 11%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 76 11%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 50 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Missoula 81

Billings 79

Helena 55

Bozeman 53

Great Falls 50
NEBRASKA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Nebraska consumers (848).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Nebraska Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Nebraska Consumers = 1,076

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Nebraska consumers (1,076).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Nebraska Consumers = 1,530

Top Nebraska Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 40 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Nebraska Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,076 $724,235 848 79% $854

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 248 23%

2 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 142 13%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 93 9%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 85 8%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 83 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Omaha 297

Lincoln 184

North Platte 35

Kearney 34

Bellevue 33

Identity Theft Types Reported by Nebraska Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Nebraska Victims = 454

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 197 43%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 88 19%

3 Bank Fraud 86 19%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 41 9%

5 Loan Fraud 34 7%

6 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 33 7%

Other 69 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 36 8%

1Percentages are based on the 454 victims reporting from Nebraska. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 25% of victims from Nebraska reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Nebraska 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Omaha 200

Lincoln 66

Bellevue 20

Fremont 11

Norfolk 10
NEVADA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Nevada consumers (1,423).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Nevada Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Nevada Consumers = 1,700

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Nevada consumers (1,700).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Nevada Consumers = 3,405

Top Nevada Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 41 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Nevada Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,700 $2,170,424 1,423 84% $1,525

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 380 22%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 214 13%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 213 13%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 145 9%

5 Business Opps and Work-at-Home Plans 115 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Las Vegas 920

Reno 207

Henderson 194

Sparks 76

Carson City 62

Identity Theft Types Reported by Nevada Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Nevada Victims = 1,705

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 683 40%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 424 25%

3 Bank Fraud 352 21%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 155 9%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 139 8%

6 Loan Fraud 114 7%

Other 334 20%

Attempted Identity Theft 138 8%

1Percentages are based on the 1,705 victims reporting from Nevada. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 27% of victims from Nevada reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Nevada 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Las Vegas 1,165

Henderson 208

Reno 131

Sparks 48

Carson City 29
NEW HAMPSHIRE 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by New Hampshire consumers (786).

Fraud Complaints from New Hampshire Consumers = 1,028

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from New Hampshire 

consumers (1,028).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from New Hampshire Consumers = 1,377

Top New Hampshire Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 42 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by New Hampshire Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,028 $927,901 786 76% $1,181

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for New Hampshire Consumers

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 217 21%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 176 17%

3 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 106 10%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 103 10%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 87 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Manchester 106

Nashua 78

Concord 44

Merrimack 27

Rochester 26

Identity Theft Types Reported by New Hampshire Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from New Hampshire Victims = 349

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 178 51%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 63 18%

3 Bank Fraud 32 9%

4 Loan Fraud 28 8%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 21 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 12 3%

Other 80 23%

Attempted Identity Theft 32 9%

1Percentages are based on the 349 victims reporting from New Hampshire. 

Percentages add to more than 100 because approximately 21% of victims from New 

Hampshire reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top New Hampshire 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Manchester 41

Nashua 32

Derry 14

Londonderry 9

Merrimack 9
NEW JERSEY 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by New Jersey consumers (4,575). Two consumers reported an amount paid of over 

$1 million.

Fraud Complaints from New Jersey Consumers = 5,472

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from New Jersey consumers (5,472).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from New Jersey Consumers = 10,274

Top New Jersey Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 43 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by New Jersey Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

5,472 $8,013,740 4,575 84% $1,752

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for New Jersey Consumers

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,598 29%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 670 12%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 560 10%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 544 10%

5 Foreign Money Offers 327 6%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Jersey City 146

Newark 85

Edison 81

Toms River 79

Trenton 75

Identity Theft Types Reported by New Jersey Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from New Jersey Victims = 4,802

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 2,350 49%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 867 18%

3 Bank Fraud 669 14%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 396 8%

5 Loan Fraud 356 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 260 5%

Other 710 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 477 10%

1Percentages are based on the 4,802 victims reporting from New Jersey. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from New Jersey reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top New Jersey 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Newark 176

Jersey City 164

Trenton 63

Elizabeth 62

West Orange 60
NEW MEXICO 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by New Mexico consumers (976).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for New Mexico Consumers

Fraud Complaints from New Mexico Consumers = 1,216

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from New Mexico consumers (1,216).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from New Mexico Consumers = 2,038

Top New Mexico Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 44 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by New Mexico Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,216 $1,735,480 976 80% $1,778

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 209 17%

2 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 201 17%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 167 14%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 131 11%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 103 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Albuquerque 404

Las Cruces 102

Santa Fe 82

Rio Rancho 42

Farmington 40

Identity Theft Types Reported by New Mexico Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from New Mexico Victims = 822

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 293 36%

2 Bank Fraud 140 17%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 133 16%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 128 16%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 106 13%

6 Loan Fraud 59 7%

Other 137 17%

Attempted Identity Theft 51 6%

1Percentages are based on the 822 victims reporting from New Mexico. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from New Mexico 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top New Mexico 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Albuquerque 372

Santa Fe 61

Las Cruces 38

Rio Rancho 31

Los Lunas 19
NEW YORK 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by New York consumers (9,362). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$1.5 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for New York Consumers

Fraud Complaints from New York Consumers = 11,241

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from New York consumers (11,241).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from New York Consumers = 23,939

Top New York Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 45 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by New York Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

11,241 $11,554,066 9,362 83% $1,234

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 3,471 31%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 1,380 12%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 1,057 9%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 946 8%

5 Telephone Services 623 6%

Identity Theft Types Reported by New York Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from New York Victims = 12,698

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 6,445 51%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 2,938 23%

3 Bank Fraud 1,405 11%

4 Loan Fraud 823 6%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 759 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 548 4%

Other 1,641 13%

Attempted Identity Theft 1,286 10%

1Percentages are based on the 12,698 victims reporting from New York. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 21% of victims from New York reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top New York 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

NewYork City25,888

Rochester 241

Flushing 165

Jamaica 156

Yonkers 144

2”New York City” includes the five boroughs: Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, 

and Staten Island.

Consumer City No. of Complaints

New York City33,264

Rochester 354

Buffalo 203

Syracuse 146

Flushing 129

3”New York City” includes the five boroughs: Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten 

Island.
NORTH CAROLINA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by North Carolina consumers (4,194). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$2 million.

Fraud Complaints from North Carolina Consumers = 5,019

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from North Carolina consumers (5,019).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from North Carolina Consumers = 8,402

Top North Carolina Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 46 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by North Carolina Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

5,019 $7,066,033 4,194 84% $1,685

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for North Carolina Consumers

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,108 22%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 760 15%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 588 12%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 409 8%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 386 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Charlotte 415

Raleigh 356

Greensboro 214

Durham 175

Fayetteville 149

Identity Theft Types Reported by North Carolina Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from North Carolina Victims = 3,383

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,475 44%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 795 23%

3 Bank Fraud 568 17%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 289 9%

5 Loan Fraud 243 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 202 6%

Other 527 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 258 8%

1Percentages are based on the 3,383 victims reporting from North Carolina. 

Percentages add to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from North 

Carolina reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top North Carolina 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Charlotte 483

Raleigh 271

Durham 165

Greensboro 126

Fayetteville 107
NORTH DAKOTA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by North Dakota consumers (325).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for North Dakota Consumers

Fraud Complaints from North Dakota Consumers = 379

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from North Dakota consumers (379).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from North Dakota Consumers = 460

Top North Dakota Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 47 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by North Dakota Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

379 $519,482 325 86% $1,598

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 127 34%

2 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 56 15%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 45 12%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 28 7%

5 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 26 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Fargo 76

Grand Forks 51

Minot 37

Bismarck 36

Mandan 12

Identity Theft Types Reported by North Dakota Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from North Dakota Victims = 81

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 35 43%

2 Bank Fraud 15 19%

3 Employment-Related Fraud 9 11%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 8 10%

5 Phone or Utilities Fraud 8 10%

6 Loan Fraud 4 5%

Other 12 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 7 9%

1Percentages are based on the 81 victims reporting from North Dakota. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 15% of victims from North Dakota 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top North Dakota 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Fargo 20

Grand Forks 11

Minot 6

Jamestown 4

Mandan 3

Wahpeton 3
OHIO 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Ohio consumers (6,202).

Fraud Complaints from Ohio Consumers = 7,425

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Ohio consumers (7,425).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Ohio Consumers = 11,490

Top Ohio Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 48 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Ohio Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

7,425 $8,339,674 6,202 84% $1,345

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Ohio Consumers

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,816 24%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 1,052 14%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 802 11%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 587 8%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 459 6%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Columbus 562

Cincinnati 498

Cleveland 389

Dayton 228

Toledo 204

Identity Theft Types Reported by Ohio Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Ohio Victims = 4,065

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,675 41%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 1,067 26%

3 Bank Fraud 635 16%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 294 7%

5 Loan Fraud 250 6%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 154 4%

Other 752 18%

Attempted Identity Theft 374 9%

1Percentages are based on the 4,065 victims reporting from Ohio. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Ohio reported experiencing 

more than one type of identity theft.

Top Ohio 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Cleveland 393

Columbus 359

Cincinnati 274

Dayton 123

Toledo 120
OKLAHOMA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Oklahoma consumers (1,532).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Oklahoma Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Oklahoma Consumers = 1,889

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Oklahoma consumers (1,889).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Oklahoma Consumers = 3,004

Top Oklahoma Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 49 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Oklahoma Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,889 $1,579,838 1,532 81% $1,031

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 511 27%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 210 11%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 205 11%

4 Foreign Money Offers 157 8%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 139 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Oklahoma City 351

Tulsa 275

Norman 91

Edmond 75

Broken Arrow 60

Identity Theft Types Reported by Oklahoma Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Oklahoma Victims = 1,115

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 460 41%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 270 24%

3 Bank Fraud 230 21%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 96 9%

5 Loan Fraud 79 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 74 7%

Other 181 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 82 7%

1Percentages are based on the 1,115 victims reporting from Oklahoma. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 26% of victims from Oklahoma reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Oklahoma 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Oklahoma City 205

Tulsa 203

Edmond 48

Broken Arrow 42

Norman 41
OREGON 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Oregon consumers (2,180). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$1 million.

Fraud Complaints from Oregon Consumers = 2,741

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Oregon consumers (2,741).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Oregon Consumers = 4,941

Top Oregon Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 50 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Oregon Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

2,741 $2,412,088 2,180 80% $1,106

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Oregon Consumers

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 643 23%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 395 14%

3 Foreign Money Offers 242 9%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 241 9%

5 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 204 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Portland 607

Salem 149

Eugene 142

Beaverton 139

Medford 72

Identity Theft Types Reported by Oregon Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Oregon Victims = 2,200

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 849 39%

2 Bank Fraud 543 25%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 490 22%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 138 6%

5 Employment-Related Fraud 119 5%

6 Loan Fraud 88 4%

Other 328 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 188 9%

1Percentages are based on the 2,200 victims reporting from Oregon. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Oregon reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Oregon 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Portland 655

Salem 139

Eugene 92

Beaverton 89

Gresham 62
PENNSYLVANIA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Pennsylvania consumers (6,728). One consumer reported an amount paid of over 

$1 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Pennsylvania Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Pennsylvania Consumers = 8,039

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Pennsylvania consumers (8,039).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Pennsylvania Consumers = 13,119

Top Pennsylvania Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 51 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Pennsylvania Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

8,039 $9,806,571 6,728 84% $1,458

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 2,021 25%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 1,016 13%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 884 11%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 688 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 681 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Philadelphia 782

Pittsburgh 509

York 122

Allentown 117

Bethlehem 115

Identity Theft Types Reported by Pennsylvania Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Pennsylvania Victims = 5,080

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 2,359 46%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 1,103 22%

3 Bank Fraud 623 12%

4 Loan Fraud 339 7%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 331 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 243 5%

Other 801 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 514 10%

1Percentages are based on the 5,080 victims reporting from Pennsylvania. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 20% of victims from Pennsylvania 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Pennsylvania 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Philadelphia 1,202

Pittsburgh 226

Allentown 70

West Chester 58

York 49
RHODE ISLAND 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Rhode Island consumers (529).

Fraud Complaints from Rhode Island Consumers = 648

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Rhode Island consumers (648).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Rhode Island Consumers = 1,059

Top Rhode Island Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 52 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Rhode Island Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

648 $467,268 529 82% $883

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Rhode Island Consumers

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 172 27%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 81 13%

3 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 77 12%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 67 10%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 60 9%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Providence 133

Warwick 76

Cranston 42

Pawtucket 35

Woonsocket 25

Identity Theft Types Reported by Rhode Island Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Rhode Island Victims = 411

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 194 47%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 89 22%

3 Bank Fraud 50 12%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 26 6%

5 Loan Fraud 21 5%

6 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 18 4%

Other 63 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 45 11%

1Percentages are based on the 411 victims reporting from Rhode Island. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 19% of victims from Rhode Island 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Rhode Island 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Providence 88

Warwick 50

Cranston 23

Cumberland 22

Pawtucket 22
SOUTH CAROLINA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by South Carolina consumers (1,793).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for South Carolina Consumers

Fraud Complaints from South Carolina Consumers = 2,183

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from South Carolina consumers (2,183).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from South Carolina Consumers = 3,422

Top South Carolina Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 53 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by South Carolina Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

2,183 $2,786,444 1,793 82% $1,554

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 487 22%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 308 14%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 226 10%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 186 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 143 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Columbia 216

Charleston 119

Greenville 114

Myrtle Beach 74

Spartanburg 67

Summerville 67

Identity Theft Types Reported by South Carolina Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from South Carolina Victims = 1,239

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 517 42%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 277 22%

3 Bank Fraud 227 18%

4 Loan Fraud 84 7%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 82 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 54 4%

Other 200 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 95 8%

1Percentages are based on the 1,239 victims reporting from South Carolina. 

Percentages add to more than 100 because approximately 20% of victims from South 

Carolina reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top South Carolina 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Columbia 136

Charleston 82

Greenville 77

Anderson 33

Summerville 33
SOUTH DAKOTA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by South Dakota consumers (323).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for South Dakota Consumers

Fraud Complaints from South Dakota Consumers = 377

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from South Dakota consumers (377).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from South Dakota Consumers = 501

Top South Dakota Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 54 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by South Dakota Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

377 $315,762 323 86% $978

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 116 31%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 45 12%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 44 12%

4 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 33 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 24 6%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Sioux Falls 85

Rapid City 60

Aberdeen 15

Mitchell 11

Spearfish 11

Identity Theft Types Reported by South Dakota Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from South Dakota Victims = 124

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 53 43%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 33 27%

3 Bank Fraud 20 16%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 14 11%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 8 6%

6 Loan Fraud 4 3%

Other 22 18%

Attempted Identity Theft 11 9%

1Percentages are based on the 124 victims reporting from South Dakota. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 24% of victims from South Dakota 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top South Dakota 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Sioux Falls 35

Rapid City 23

Ellsworth AFB 6

Vermillion 5

Watertown 3
TENNESSEE 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Tennessee consumers (2,692).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Tennessee Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Tennessee Consumers = 3,290

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Tennessee consumers (3,290).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Tennessee Consumers = 5,252

Top Tennessee Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 55 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Tennessee Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

3,290 $4,449,343 2,692 82% $1,653

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 786 24%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 399 12%

3 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 351 11%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 302 9%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 252 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Memphis 388

Nashville 310

Knoxville 221

Chattanooga 104

Cleveland 77

Identity Theft Types Reported by Tennessee Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Tennessee Victims = 1,962

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 940 48%

2 Bank Fraud 391 20%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 364 19%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 140 7%

5 Loan Fraud 140 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 89 5%

Other 309 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 161 8%

1Percentages are based on the 1,962 victims reporting from Tennessee. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 23% of victims from Tennessee reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Tennessee 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Memphis 424

Nashville 176

Knoxville 94

Chattanooga 65

Cordova 58
TEXAS 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Texas consumers (9,865). Three consumers reported an amount paid in the 

millions ($20 million, over $4 million, and $2 million, respectively).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Texas Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Texas Consumers = 12,295

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Texas consumers (12,295).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Texas Consumers = 26,652

Top Texas Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 56 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Texas Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

12,295 $39,020,425 9,865 80% $3,955

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 2,800 23%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 1,460 12%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 1,347 11%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 1,056 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 953 8%

Identity Theft Types Reported by Texas Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Texas Victims = 14,357

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 5,660 39%

2 Bank Fraud 3,182 22%

3 Employment-Related Fraud 2,305 16%

4 Phone or Utilities Fraud 2,305 16%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 1,336 9%

6 Loan Fraud 827 6%

Other 1,810 13%

Attempted Identity Theft 1,009 7%

1Percentages are based on the 14,357 victims reporting from Texas. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Texas reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Texas 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Houston 2,654

Dallas 1,224

San Antonio 825

Austin 543

Fort Worth 472

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Houston 1,293

Dallas 905

Austin 735

San Antonio 647

Fort Worth 417
UTAH 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Utah consumers (1,292).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Utah Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Utah Consumers = 1,581

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Utah consumers (1,581).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Utah Consumers = 2,467

Top Utah Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 57 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Utah Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,581 $1,567,332 1,292 82% $1,213

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 375 24%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 202 13%

3 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 153 10%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 142 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 117 7%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Salt Lake City 329

Provo 89

Ogden 91

Sandy 66

Orem 60

Identity Theft Types Reported by Utah Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Utah Victims = 886

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 303 34%

2 Bank Fraud 220 25%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 182 21%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 75 8%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 56 6%

6 Loan Fraud 52 6%

Other 149 17%

Attempted Identity Theft 78 9%

1Percentages are based on the 886 victims reporting from Utah. P ercentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 21% of victims from Utah reported experiencing 

more than one type of identity theft.

Top Utah 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Salt Lake City 211

West Valley City 52

Sandy 50

West Jordan 41

Ogden 40
VERMONT 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Vermont consumers (314).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Vermont Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Vermont Consumers = 470

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Vermont consumers (470).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Vermont Consumers = 577

Top Vermont Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 58 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Vermont Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

470 $319,498 314 67% $1,018

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 82 17%

2 Office Supplies and Services 55 12%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 50 11%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 48 10%

5 Magazines and Buyers Clubs 43 9%

Identity Theft Types Reported by Vermont Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Vermont Victims = 107

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 66 62%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 18 17%

3 Bank Fraud 12 11%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 7 7%

5 Employment-Related Fraud 5 5%

6 Loan Fraud 4 4%

Other 18 17%

Attempted Identity Theft 9 8%

1Percentages are based on the 107 victims reporting from Vermont. Percentages add to 

more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Vermont reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Vermont 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Burlington 15

Rutland 8

Colchester 7

Charlotte 4

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Burlington 61

Montpelier 23

Bennington 15

Essex Junction 15

Rutland 15
VIRGINIA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Virginia consumers (4,570).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Virginia Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Virginia Consumers = 5,810

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Virginia consumers (5,810).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Virginia Consumers = 9,205

Top Virginia Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 59 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Virginia Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

5,810 $4,702,616 4,570 79% $1,029

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,149 20%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 800 14%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 641 11%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 522 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 520 9%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Alexandria 414

Richmond 355

Virginia Beach 330

Arlington 283

Fairfax 216

Identity Theft Types Reported by Virginia Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Virginia Victims = 3,395

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,635 48%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 711 21%

3 Bank Fraud 554 16%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 250 7%

5 Loan Fraud 231 7%

6 Employment-Related Fraud 116 3%

Other 543 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 371 11%

1Percentages are based on the 3,395 victims reporting from Virginia. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 24% of victims from Virginia reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Virginia 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Alexandria 279

Richmond 235

Arlington 226

Virginia Beach 208

Norfolk 122
WASHINGTON 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Washington consumers (4,300).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Washington Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Washington Consumers = 5,341

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Washington consumers (5,341).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Washington Consumers = 9,235

Top Washington Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 60 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Washington Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

5,341 $4,761,637 4,300 81% $1,107

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 1,262 24%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 727 14%

3 Foreign Money Offers 439 8%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 432 8%

5 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 420 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Seattle 841

Spokane 278

Vancouver 232

Tacoma 202

Bellevue 183

Identity Theft Types Reported by Washington Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Washington Victims = 3,894

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 1,579 41%

2 Bank Fraud 949 24%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 829 21%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 291 7%

5 Employment-Related Fraud 224 6%

6 Loan Fraud 178 5%

Other 640 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 361 9%

1Percentages are based on the 3,894 victims reporting from Washin gton. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 25% of victims from Washington 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Washington 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Seattle 574

Tacoma 226

Vancouver 189

Spokane 130

Bellevue 122
WEST VIRGINIA 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by West Virginia consumers (898).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for West Virginia Consumers

Fraud Complaints from West Virginia Consumers = 1,063

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from West Virginia consumers (1,063).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from West Virginia Consumers = 1,423

Top West Virginia Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 61 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by West Virginia Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

1,063 $845,458 898 84% $941

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 232 22%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 186 17%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 105 10%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 89 8%

5 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 64 6%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Charleston 71

Morgantown 67

Huntington 44

Martinsburg 41

Fairmont 31

Identity Theft Types Reported by West Virginia Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from West Virginia Victims = 360

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 148 41%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 89 25%

3 Bank Fraud 64 18%

4 Loan Fraud 23 6%

5 Employment-Related Fraud 13 4%

6 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 12 3%

Other 76 21%

Attempted Identity Theft 30 8%

1Percentages are based on the 360 victims reporting from West Virginia. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from West Virginia 

reported experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top West Virginia 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Charleston 28

Parkersburg 20

Huntington 18

Morgantown 14

Beckley 13
WISCONSIN 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid was 

reported by Wisconsin consumers (2,810). One consumer reported an amount paid of $4 million.

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Wisconsin Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Wisconsin Consumers = 3,383

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Wisconsin consumers (3,383).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Wisconsin Consumers = 5,160

Top Wisconsin Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 62 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Wisconsin Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

3,383 $7,820,334 2,810 83% $2,783

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 862 25%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 414 12%

3 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 329 10%

4 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 296 9%

5 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 289 9%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Milwaukee 358

Madison 246

Green Bay 113

Racine 86

Appleton 83

Kenosha 83

Identity Theft Types Reported by Wisconsin Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Wisconsin Victims = 1,777

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 721 41%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 536 30%

3 Bank Fraud 224 13%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 141 8%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 106 6%

6 Loan Fraud 93 5%

Other 258 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 168 9%

1Percentages are based on the1,777 victims reporting from Wisconsin. Percentages 

add to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Wisconsin reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Wisconsin 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Milwaukee 465

Madison 102

Green Bay 69

Kenosha 46

Waukesha 39
WYOMING 

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by Wyoming consumers (294).

Top Fraud Complaint Categories for Wyoming Consumers

Fraud Complaints from Wyoming Consumers = 357

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from Wyoming consumers (357).

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints from Wyoming Consumers = 480

Top Wyoming Consumer Locations for Fraud Complaints

Federal Trade Commission Page 63 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by Wyoming Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

357 $295,945 294 82% $1,007

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 80 22%

2 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 51 14%

3 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 34 10%

4 Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries 30 8%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 30 8%

Consumer City No. of Complaints

Cheyenne 66

Casper 42

Laramie 22

Rock Springs 19

Cody 16

Jackson 16

Sheridan 16

Identity Theft Types Reported by Wyoming Victims

Identity Theft Complaints from Wyoming Victims = 123

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 54 44%

2 Bank Fraud 19 15%

3 Phone or Utilities Fraud 19 15%

4 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 11 9%

5 Employment-Related Fraud 8 7%

6 Loan Fraud 6 5%

Other 19 15%

Attempted Identity Theft 12 10%

1Percentages are based on the 123 victims reporting from Wyoming. Percentages add 

to more than 100 because approximately 22% of victims from Wyoming reported 

experiencing more than one type of identity theft.

Top Wyoming 

Identity Theft Victim Locations

Victim City No. of Victims

Cheyenne 22

Casper 15

Evanston 7

Laramie 7

Gillette 6
2Average amount paid is based on the total number of fraud complaints where amount paid 

was reported by all consumers (172,887).

1Percentages are based on the total number of fraud complaints from all consumers (218,284).

Federal Trade Commission Page 64 of 64 Created January 22, 2003

Amount Paid Reported by All Consumers

Identity Theft Types Reported by All Victims

Total Identity Theft Victims = 161,819

1Percentages are based on the 161,819 total victims reporting. P ercentages add to more 

than 100 because approximately 22% of victims reported experiencing more than one 

type of identity theft. 

Total Fraud Complaints = 218,284

Consumer Sentinel Complaint Statistics and Trends 

January 1 - December 31, 2002

Total Number of Fraud and Identity Theft Complaints = 380,103

Top Fraud Complaint Categories Reported by All Consumers

Total No. of 

Complaints

Total Amount 

Paid Reported

Total Complaints 

Reporting Amt Pd

Percentage of Complaints 

Reporting Amount Paid

Average 

Amount Paid2

218,284 $343,509,372 172,887 79% $1,987

Rank Top Categories Complaints Percentage1

1 Internet Auctions 50,998 23%

2 Internet Services and Computer Complaints 24,238 11%

3 Advance-Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair 20,134 9%

4 Shop-at-Home/Catalog Sales 18,794 9%

5 Foreign Money Offers 16,871 8%

Rank Identity Theft Type No. of Victims Percentage1

1 Credit Card Fraud 67,794 42%

2 Phone or Utilities Fraud 34,888 22%

3 Bank Fraud 27,302 17%

4 Employment-Related Fraud 14,975 9%

5 Government Documents or Benefits Fraud 12,500 8%

6 Loan Fraud 9,864 6%

Other 25,623 16%

Attempted Identity Theft 13,365 8%
Econsumer.gov was created in April 2001 as a joint effort involving thirteen countries to gather 

and share cross-border e-commerce complaints in order to respond to the challenges of 

multinational Internet fraud, and enhance consumer confidence in e-commerce. The multilingual 

public Web site provides general information about consumer protection in all countries that belong 

to the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (formerly called the 

International Marketing Supervision Network), contact information for consumer protection 

authorities in those countries, and an online complaint form. All information is available in English, 

French, German, and Spanish. Using the existing Consumer Sentinel network, the incoming 

complaints will be shared through the government Web site with participating consumer protection 

law enforcers.

Military Sentinel, which was established in September 2002, is a project of the Federal Trade 

Commission and the Department of Defense to identify and target consumer protection issues that 

affect members of the United States Armed Forces and their families. Military Sentinel also 

provides a gateway to consumer education materials covering a wide range of consumer protection 

issues, such as auto leasing, identity theft, and work-at-home scams. Members of the United States 

Armed Forces are able to enter complaints directly into Consumer Sentinel. Through Consumer 

Sentinel, the government password-protected Web site, this information can be used by law 

enforcement agencies, members of the JAG staff, and others in the Department of Defense to help 

protect armed services members and their families from consumer protection-related problems.

The Identity Theft Data Clearinghouse was launched in November 1999 and is the sole national 

repository of consumer complaints about identity theft. The Clearinghouse provides specific 

investigative material for law enforcement and larger, trend-based information providing insight to 

both private and public sector partners on ways to reduce the incidence of identity theft. 

Information in the Clearinghouse is available to law enforcement members via Consumer Sentinel, 

the secured, password-protected government Web site. This access enables law enforcers to readily 

and easily spot identity theft problems in their own backyards, and to coordinate with other law 

enforcement officers where the data reveals common schemes or perpetrators. 

www.econsumer.gov

www.consumer.gov/ military

www.consumer.gov/ idtheft

Appendix A: The Consumer Sentinel Network

Federal Trade Commission Created January 22, 2003
Appendix B: Other Sentinel Data Contributors

Federal Trade Commission Created January 22, 2003

Attorneys General Offices Police/Sheriff Departments

Arkansas Attorney General Illinois, Lincolnshire Police Department

Colorado Attorney General Illinois, Park Forest Police Department

Louisiana Department of Justice Illinois, Peoria Police Department

North Carolina Department of Justice Indiana, Marshall County Police Department

Ohio Attorney General Maryland, Hyattsville Police Department

Rhode Island Attorney General Michigan, Genesee County Sheriff's Department

Vermont Attorney General Michigan, Livingston County Sheriff's Office

Wyoming Attorney General Minnesota, Maplewood Police Department

Minnesota, Oak Park Heights Police Department

Federal Agencies Missouri, Manchester Police Department

Federal Bureau of Investigation New Jersey, Jefferson Township Police

U.S. Army JAG Legal Assistance New Jersey, Manchester Police

U.S. Attorney Central District of California New Mexico, Farmington Police Department

U.S. Postal Inspection Service North Carolina, Pinehurst Police Department

U.S. Secret Service Virginia Culpeper State Police

Virginia, Front Royal Police Department

State Agencies & District Attorneys Offices Washington, Mount Vernon Police Department

California Stanislaus County District Attorney Wisconsin Waukesha County Sheriff

Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection

Georgia Governor's Office of Consumer Affairs Other Agencies

Tennessee Regulatory Authority Norwegian Consumer Ombudsman

Texas Travis County District Attorney United Kingdom Office of Fair Trading

Virginia, Virginia Beach Commonwealth Attorney Xerox Corporation

Washington Securities Division

Wisconsin Dept. of Financial Institutions

Wisconsin Dept. of Agriculture, Trade, & Consumer Pro.
Appendix C: Consumer Sentinel Complaint Categories

Travel, Vacation and Timeshare Plans: Deceptive offers for “free” or low-cost vacations; cut-rate student travel packages; 

misleading timeshare offers, etc.

“Other” complaint categories are: investments, multi-level marketing/pyramids/chain letters, office supplies and services, 

travel/vacations/timeshare, employment agencies/job counseling, charitable solicitations, credit card issuing, real estate, 

scholarships/educational grants, modeling agencies/services, government services, dating services, property/inheritance tracers,

water purifiers, green card application services, living trusts and viaticals.

Telephone Services: Charges for calls to “toll-free” numbers; unauthorized charges such as charges for calls you 

didn’t make; unauthorized switching of your phone service provider; misleading pre-paid phone card offers, etc.

Shop-At-Home/Catalog Sales: Problems, such as undisclosed costs, failure to deliver on time, non-delivery and refusal to 

honor a guarantee, with purchases made via the Internet (not including auction sales), telephone or mail.

Prizes/Sweepstakes and Lotteries: Promotions for “free” prizes for a fee; foreign lotteries and sweepstakes offered 

through the phone, fax, e-mail or mail, etc.

Office Supplies and Services: Fraudulent or deceptive offers for toner, copier paper, maintenance supplies,

equipment maintenance contracts; classified advertising and yellow page invoice scams; website cramming schemes, 

etc.

Multi-Level Marketing/Pyramids/Chain Letters: Network plans that offer commissions on the sale of goods by you and 

distributors you recruit.

Magazine and Buyers Clubs: Pitches for "free," "pre-paid" or "special" magazine subscription deals and offers for club 

memberships that claim to help you save money when buying a particular product or service (CDs, books, etc.).

Investments: Promises of riches in day trading, oil and gas leases, gold and gems, FCC licenses, etc. that don’t pan out.

Internet Services and Computers: Trial offers from ISPs; difficulty canceling an ISP account; undisclosed Web site charges 

and problems with computer software and equipment purchases. 

Internet Auctions: Non-delivery of goods, delivery of goods that are less valuable than advertised; lack of delivery in a timely 

way; failure to disclose all the relevant information about the product or terms of the sale, etc.

Identity Theft: When someone appropriates your personally identifying information (like your Social Security number or 

credit card account number) to commit fraud or theft.

Health Care: Fraudulent, misleading or deceptive claims for vision correction procedures; dietary supplements; weight loss 

products or services; impotency treatments; health spas and equipments; infertility services; sunscreens; HIV test kits, etc.

Foreign Money Offers: Letters or e-mails offer the "opportunity" to share in a percentage of millions of dollars that a selfproclaimed government official is trying to transfer illegally out of a foreign country in return for money, bank account numbers 

or other identifying information from the victim. 

Charitable Solicitations: Misleading pitches for donations to benefit local service organizations, solicitations for bogus 

charity or relief organizations, etc.

Business Opportunities and Work-at-Home Plans: Medical billing scams; misleading franchise and Internet-based business 

opportunities; wealth building plans that don’t make good on their promises, etc.

Advance Fee Loans and Credit Protection/Repair Offers: The promise of a loan that requires you to pay a fee first; 

worthless credit card loss protection and insurance programs; the promise that accurate negative information can be removed 

from your credit file for a fee, etc.

Federal Trade Commission Created January 22, 2003