2025 payment fraud trends: what you should know

As we look ahead to 2025, the fraud landscape is evolving at an unprecedented speed. From the integration of AI agents to the resurgence of cryptocurrency, fraudsters are leveraging new technologies and societal shifts to devise sophisticated schemes. Here are the key fraud trends to watch out for in the coming year:

AI agents are sophisticated autonomous systems capable of performing tasks without human intervention. These systems are increasingly integrated into various business operations, enhancing efficiency and productivity. However, the same technology that optimizes businesses processes can also be weaponized by fraudsters. As CEOs explore the feasibility of integrating AI agents into the workforce, fraudsters are also considering how to exploit these technologies. The influence of AI in fraud operations can increase the speed and efficiency of fraudulent activities, posing new challenges for security professionals.

Main takeaway: As businesses level up with AI, stay vigilant. Fraudsters are ready to exploit these systems, speeding up their scams and making fraud harder to spot.

In many countries, the responsibility for fraud losses is shifting from consumers to banks. For instance, starting in October 2024, payment service providers (PSPs) in the U.K. must reimburse victims of Authorized Push Payment (APP) fraud, as per new regulations set by the government’s payment regulator. Fraudsters adapt quickly to new regulations, finding loopholes and exploiting them. Even friends and acquaintances may become accomplices in account-to-account (A2A) fraud, knowing they could receive cash reimbursements. This shift in liability may lead to a rise in collusion and complicity.

Main takeaway: Be cautious when new regulations come into play as the shift in fraud liability to banks could lead to increased payment fraud.

Advanced AI technologies can drastically impact fraud operations globally, bypassing traditional obstacles and making it easier for fraudsters to operate across borders. For example, a fraudster in the U.S. can orchestrate a phishing attack in Mandarin, while a fraudster from Taiwan can leverage voice cloning and deepfake technology to pose as the CEO of a fintech company based in South Africa. As such, geolocation authentication services will most likely become crucial in the battle against cross-border fraud.

Main takeaway: Instituting enhanced verification measures can help identify and prevent fraudulent activities originating from various geographic locations.

Fraudsters have always leveraged emotions and a sense of urgency to scam their victims. New detection technology blurs the lines between what is real and what is not, making scams more convincing and therefore difficult to detect.

And advancements in voice cloning will make fake kidnappings or personal emergencies sound identical to an actual family member. This technology can create highly convincing and emotionally charged scenarios, prompting victims to act quickly and without verification.

Main takeaway: Just like in the movies, consumers should create a “safe word” known only to them and their loved ones to ensure the person you are talking to is genuinely who they claim to be.

The demand for and scarcity of tickets for the hottest musical or sporting events create lucrative opportunities for fraudsters. They send fake booking cancellation emails or bogus failed payment emails, requesting that individuals re-enter their card payment details. With notable events this year, such as highly anticipated concert tours expected, this trend is likely to continue into 2025.

Main takeaway: Fans should remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of any communications related to ticket purchases.

Economic uncertainty can create opportunities for fraudsters to exploit supply chain vulnerabilities and market fluctuations. They target consumer electronics, auto parts, home goods, and footwear to hoard and resell at higher prices.

Main takeaway: Consumers should be cautious when purchasing high-demand items and verify the legitimacy of sellers.

The resurgence of interest and investment in cryptocurrencies creates new opportunities for fraudsters. We expect to see increases in fake exchanges, crypto jacking, pump-and-dump schemes, fake coin schemes, market manipulation, and pig butchering investment scams.

Main takeaway: Investors should remain vigilant and conduct thorough research before engaging in cryptocurrency transactions.

As we navigate 2025, staying in the know and taking proactive steps will be key to tackling evolving fraud trends. Stay sharp and protect your business in this ever-changing landscape with the help of Visa Acceptance Solutions. For added fraud-fighting firepower, add our 2024 Global Fraud and Payments Report to your arsenal for additional insights into current fraud schemes and what you can do to combat them.

To learn more about navigating the fraud landscape in 2025, watch our webinar featuring experts from Visa Acceptance Solutions and Barclays.