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Consumer Perspectives on Tech-Enabled Fraud & Scams

The purpose of this survey is to gather consumer experiences and thoughts about technology enabled scams targeting people through computers, cell phones, messaging apps, and social media. We want to hear about times when you were targeted via email, text, or messages by scammers looking to steal money or private information—and your ideas on how to stop them.

Your answers are confidential. Aggregated results will help the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation protect Californians. The survey should take about 3 minutes. At the end, you can share your story if you choose.

Questions? Email OFTI@DFPI.CA.Gov

Thank you for helping keep California safe!
1.How often do you receive texts, pop-ups, QR codes, emails, or calls you suspect are fraudulent?
2.Have you ever been contacted by someone who turned out to be a scammer? (Check all methods that apply)
3.Have you ever followed through on a scammer’s request for money or your private information (clicked a link, shared info, paid a fee, etc.)?
If you answered NO to Question 3, skip to Question 8;

If you answered YES to Question 3, please answer Questions 4, 5, 6, and 7
4.What were things that the criminal did that convinced you to trust the scam communication/contact? (Check all that apply)
5.Did you report the financial loss? (Check all that apply)
6.If you didn’t report, why not? (Check all that apply)
7.What effect did the criminal scam have on you? (Check all that apply)
8.What types of threats concern you most? (Select your top 3)
9.How confident are you in spotting and avoiding tech-enabled fraud?
10.How confident are you that your friends and family can spot and avoid tech-enabled fraud?
11.Who do you trust most to inform you about how to combat fraud? (Check all that apply)
12.What else would you like California’s financial watchdog to know about tech-enabled fraud?