Consumer Alert: 2025's Worst Scams and Heroic Helpers

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Scams of 2025: A Look Back at the Most Notorious Fraud Schemes

As we step into 2026, it's essential to reflect on the year that was, especially when it comes to consumer safety. The past year brought with it a wave of scams that left many individuals shaken and financially vulnerable. From deceptive texts to the rising threat of cryptocurrency fraud, the landscape of deception has evolved rapidly.

The Rise of Text-Based Scams

One of the most common forms of fraud in 2025 was the overwhelming number of scam texts flooding people's phones. These messages often appeared to come from legitimate sources, such as banks or government agencies, making them particularly dangerous. Victims reported receiving messages that seemed to be urgent requests for personal information or immediate action.

Jill Dougherty, an Ashwaubenon resident, shared her harrowing experience after falling victim to a bank impersonation scam. She recounted how she took out $2,000 at a time, stuffing it into an ATM while the scammer uploaded a new digital card to her Apple phone. This method allowed the scammer to access her account without her knowledge.

Another Wells Fargo customer, Laura Prellwitz, described a similar situation where the scammer was able to provide details about her last three transactions. Her story had a different ending when a bank employee overheard her conversation with her husband and intervened, warning her that it was a scam.

Medicare and Family Emergency Scams

The Medicare scam also made headlines in 2025, targeting seniors who were more likely to fall for these tactics. One victim from Suamico shared how a caller claiming to have worked for Medicare for 29 years convinced her to update her records. The caller’s persuasive tactics led her to comply, resulting in significant financial loss.

In another incident, a Waupaca County man received a call that sounded like his own voice, causing his elderly parents to panic. They were in the process of withdrawing money when a bank employee recognized the signs of a scam and advised them to contact someone to verify the situation. The emotional toll of these scams is evident, as one mother was seen crying during the ordeal.

Lisa Schiller of the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau emphasized the psychological impact of these scams, stating that they can cause heart attacks and deep emotional distress.

Data Breaches and Identity Theft

Data breaches were another major concern in 2025, with many victims expressing fear about the potential misuse of their personal information. Howard Pope, a concerned individual, voiced his worries about the implications of stolen data, questioning when these perpetrators would use the information and whether they would lurk in the shadows waiting for the right moment.

Additionally, fake highway toll texts and threats of DMV fines targeted residents across Wisconsin and other states. These messages often created a sense of urgency, prompting individuals to act without thinking.

The Unseen Threat of Counterfeit Items

Even the world of collectibles was not immune to fraud. Jake, a Green Bay Card Shop owner, revealed that counterfeit Pokémon cards were becoming increasingly common. He noted that many of those who ended up with fake cards were children, highlighting the need for vigilance among younger consumers.

Cryptocurrency Scams and the Challenge of Recovery

Cryptocurrency scams also saw a significant rise in 2025, with Bitcoin ATMs being exploited by fraudsters. Manitowoc Police Capt. Cooper Schmidt expressed concern over the difficulty of recovering lost funds, as transactions in the crypto world are often transferred quickly and can end up overseas before law enforcement is even aware of the crime.

Advice for Staying Safe

Consumers were reminded of several key steps to protect themselves from scams. Laura Prellwitz advised always calling the bank directly and checking with a family member. Aaron Dufek, an Ashwaubenon Public Safety Investigator, emphasized the importance of monitoring one's identity and credit report regularly.

Michelle Reinen, administrator of the Wisconsin Division of Trade and Consumer Protection, urged individuals to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their personal information.

A Voice for the Silent Majority

Jill Dougherty, despite her painful experience, found strength in sharing her story. She expressed a sense of fulfillment in helping others become aware of these dangers and in being a voice for the silent majority affected by scams.

Thank you to all the viewers who share their stories and spread awareness about these issues. By educating friends, family, and coworkers, we can work together to stay ahead of scammers and protect our communities.