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Understanding Scams: A Collaborative Effort by Gallup and Stop Scams Alliance

In a significant move to tackle the pervasive issue of scams in the United States, Gallup has joined forces with the Stop Scams Alliance, announcing a groundbreaking research collaboration aimed at uncovering the scope and impact of scams on the American public. This initiative is set to delve into the attitudes surrounding scams, the personal experiences of individuals falling victim to financial fraud, and the behaviors associated with reporting these crimes.

In recent surveys, around 53% of adults in the U.S. expressed fears about being misled into giving away money or access to their financial accounts. This concern ranks just below identity theft among the top crime-related worries faced by citizens today. The continuity of these fears over the past few years highlights an urgent need for a more detailed understanding of scams, particularly given that many incidents remain underreported.

The Need for Research and Awareness

This new collaboration is particularly timely. Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, employing tactics that prey on emotional vulnerabilities and technical naivety. From online phishing to complex investment schemes and romance scams, American consumers are targeted at unprecedented rates. However, many cases go unreported, creating significant gaps in the data and understanding of this growing issue.

The upcoming survey aims to assess several critical areas:

• - Prevalence of scams and financial losses: Understanding how often scams occur and the financial toll they take on the victims.
• - Barriers to reporting: Investigating why many victims do not report scams, shedding light on fears or misunderstandings that might prevent them from speaking out.
• - Social and psychological effects: Evaluating how scams affect everyday life beyond just financial loss, including emotional and mental health implications.

Building a Foundation for Understanding

One of the primary objectives of this research is to create a national baseline for understanding scams as a measurable public issue. This foundational data will provide invaluable insights for policymakers, researchers, and leaders in various sectors like finance and consumer protection, enabling them to devise strategies targeted at combatting scams effectively.

Moreover, the survey will explore the most common methods scammers use to approach potential victims and what factors encourage or discourage individuals from reporting these crimes. The goal is to enhance public awareness and document the true scale of the scamming epidemic, thereby creating a framework that allows measurable progress over time.

A Call for Action

With upcoming initial findings slated for release in Spring 2026, the urgency of this research cannot be overstated. Ken Westbrook, the Founder and CEO of Stop Scams Alliance, emphasized that “good policy requires good data,” noting that this will be one of the most extensive examinations of scams' nature and scope in America.

The partnership includes support from a broad coalition of industry leaders across technology, finance, and telecommunications dedicated to advancing consumer safety and working to mitigate the impacts of fraud. The participating organizations include JPMorganChase, FINRA, and Meta, among others.

Together, these collaborative efforts signify a serious commitment to understanding and addressing the complex realities of financial scams. By fostering a public-private partnership and cross-sector cooperation, Gallup and Stop Scams Alliance will endeavor to stop scams at their source before they reach consumers.

The Road Ahead

As Americans continue to face various types of scams threatening their financial security and personal well-being, this research initiative serves as a proactive measure in the fight against fraud. It aims not only to reveal the extent of these crimes but also to empower consumers and stakeholders to take informed actions. Enhanced awareness and understanding can lead to better protection measures, a reduction in scam instances, and ultimately, a safer environment for all.

In conclusion, the collaborative study between Gallup and Stop Scams Alliance is a crucial step toward fostering an informed public and strengthening defenses against the ever-evolving tactics of scammers. The findings could shape the dialogue around consumer protection and propel necessary changes in policies and practices to safeguard American citizens effectively.