One in four EU citizens reports falling victim to online fraud

A briefing by the European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS) published on October 30, 2026, reveals that one in four citizens across the European Union has been a victim of online fraud. Among those targeted, more than one in three individuals have been deceived on multiple occasions. The report highlights that 80% of consumers have received at least one fraudulent message, underscoring the prevalence of these criminal attempts.

EPRS identifies online fraud as one of the fastest-growing sectors of organized crime. Criminal groups are increasingly utilizing automation, artificial intelligence, and specialized illicit tools, such as automated calling systems and caller ID spoofing, to enhance their operations. Law enforcement actions against these groups have uncovered widespread evidence, including computers and SIM cards sourced from various countries.

Data from the 2026 European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights report underscores significant disparities between member states. While the regional average is high, individual nations show varying levels of vulnerability; for instance, 11% of respondents in Greece and Romania reported falling victim to such crimes. The evolving nature of these digital threats continues to pose a significant challenge to authorities, as the complexity and accessibility of criminal technology continue to facilitate illicit activity across borders.