WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has released its 2024 Internet Crime Report, revealing a sharp rise in internet-related crimes across the U.S., including in West Virginia.
Nationally, the IC3 received 859,532 complaints in 2024, with reported losses exceeding $16 billion—a 33% increase compared to 2023.
In West Virginia, 2,594 internet crime complaints were filed, placing the state 43rd nationwide in number of complaints. However, the state ranked 49th in total dollar losses, which still amounted to more than $24 million.
The age group most affected in West Virginia was residents over the age of 60, who lost nearly $6 million in total.
The top three internet crimes reported in the state were:
- Extortion – 346 complaints
- Personal Data Breach – 282 complaints
- Phishing/Spoofing – 271 complaints
“We see the real-world impacts of these schemes every day and it is devastating,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “People are losing everything they have in these situations, including their life savings and their sense of security.”
The IC3 compiles its annual report based on data voluntarily submitted by the public through its website, www.ic3.gov. The FBI uses the information to identify crime trends, aid investigations, and raise awareness.
Established in 2000, the IC3 has now collected over nine million complaints. The FBI urges anyone who believes they have been a victim of a cyber-enabled crime to file a report—regardless of financial loss. Quick action is also advised: victims should immediately notify their financial institutions, local law enforcement, and their nearest FBI field office.
The FBI also recommends regularly reviewing consumer alerts and resources published by IC3.
To read the full 2024 Internet Crime Report, visit: https://www.ic3.gov/AnnualReport/Reports/2024_IC3Report.pdf
