Online Shopping Scam Statistics
Reported losses and complaint volumes for online shopping and non-delivery fraud, drawn from FTC Consumer Sentinel Network and Action Fraud data.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Online shopping scams include fake online stores, non-delivery of paid-for goods, undisclosed fees, and counterfeit products sold as genuine. They are among the most commonly reported fraud types by volume in both the US and UK, though individual losses are typically lower than in investment or BEC fraud.
Figures below come from the FTC's Consumer Sentinel Network (US) and Action Fraud (UK). Because online shopping is so widespread, even a low rate of fraud translates into large report volumes. Under-reporting remains a factor — many victims do not file formal reports for small losses, and some contact their card issuer or retailer directly instead.
Key figures
$434.4 million in 2024, with a median reported loss of $130
Reported online shopping fraud losses (US, FTC)
Source: FTC Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book 2024 (2024)
Over 387,000 reports in 2024 — the second most common fraud category
Online shopping fraud reports filed with FTC
Source: FTC Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book 2024 (2024)
52,980 reports in 2024 — the most commonly reported fraud type
Online shopping and auction fraud reports (UK, Action Fraud)
Source: Action Fraud (via RSM UK Freedom of Information request, 2024 data) (2024)
Key takeaways
- According to the FTC, US consumers reported losing $434.4 million to online shopping fraud in 2024, with a median individual loss of $130.
- Online shopping fraud was the second most commonly reported fraud type to the FTC in 2024 by volume, with over 387,000 reports.
- In the UK, online shopping and auction fraud was the single most commonly reported fraud type to Action Fraud in 2024.
- Low median losses mean many victims do not bother reporting, so volumes captured in official figures are likely a significant undercount.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as online shopping fraud in these reports?
The FTC's Consumer Sentinel Network defines online shopping fraud as reports of undisclosed costs, failure to deliver on time, non-delivery, and refusal to honour a guarantee on purchases made online or via internet auctions. It does not include identity theft or account takeover recorded under other categories.
Why do online shopping fraud figures vary between the FTC and other sources?
The FTC only receives reports voluntarily submitted by US consumers or passed from partner agencies. Many victims dispute charges directly with their bank or card network and never file a fraud report, so the true volume of incidents is much higher.
How can I tell if an online store is a scam?
Warning signs include prices that seem too good to be true, no verifiable physical address or phone number, no genuine customer reviews, and payment only via bank transfer or gift card. Before buying from an unfamiliar site, check it against resources such as the FTC's consumer advice pages or UK Finance's Take Five campaign.
What should I do if I have been scammed by a fake online store?
Report to your bank or card issuer immediately and request a chargeback if you paid by card. In the US, file a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. In the UK, report to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk. Keep all evidence including order confirmations and payment receipts.