A startling new study based on FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) data reveals the troubling state of cybersecurity across the United States. From Alaska’s high complaint rates to Nevada’s staggering financial losses, the findings shed light on how cybercriminals are targeting both tech hubs and rural regions.

Alaska: Leading in Complaints

Alaska tops the cybercrime complaint rankings with 318.73 per 100,000 people. This alarming figure, coupled with financial losses of $4.3 million per 100,000 residents, underscores the state’s vulnerabilities, attributed to its remote location and limited cybersecurity infrastructure.

Nevada: Financial Loss Leader

While Nevada ranks second in complaints (308.10 per 100,000 people), it suffers the highest financial losses nationwide, amounting to $6.26 million per 100,000 residents. The state’s wealth of high-value targets, including casinos and resorts, makes it a prime focus for cybercriminals.

Delaware: Small State, Big Risks

Delaware ranks third in complaints, with 257.30 per 100,000 people, and incurs $3.39 million in financial losses per 100,000 residents. Its concentration of financial institutions and corporate registries makes it particularly attractive to cybercriminals.

Tech Hubs Not Immune

Even tech-savvy states like Arizona (4th) and California (5th) face significant losses. Arizona reports $4.33 million in financial damages per 100,000 residents, while California’s losses reach $5.55 million—second only to Nevada. This trend shows that even states with advanced technological infrastructure are not safe from cyber threats.

Colorado and Washington: Rising Targets

Colorado ranks sixth with 194.03 complaints per 100,000 people and $3.17 million in financial losses, followed by Washington in seventh place with 186.19 complaints and substantial financial damages. These states’ growing internet usage and tech-centric economies are likely contributing factors.

South Dakota: Rural Vulnerabilities

South Dakota’s eighth-place ranking highlights the growing threat to rural areas. Despite its small population, the state reports 181.75 complaints and significant financial losses, indicating a lack of preparedness for cyberattacks.

Florida and South Carolina: Retirees and Smaller Scams

Florida ranks ninth, with a large retiree population making it a target for phishing scams, while South Carolina rounds out the top ten with smaller-scale cybercrimes resulting in fewer financial losses.

The Least Affected States

North Dakota: A Safer Cyber Haven

North Dakota has the fewest complaints (96.84 per 100,000 people) and the lowest financial losses at $1.7 million per 100,000 residents. Experts caution, however, that lower complaint rates may mask unreported issues.

Wyoming and Vermont

Wyoming (115.52 complaints) and Vermont (125.94 complaints) also rank low in cybercrime prevalence. While their rural nature and smaller populations limit their appeal to cybercriminals, experts warn that complacency could leave them unprepared for future attacks.

Nationwide Trends and Takeaways

The data reveals that no region is immune to cyber threats. Whether targeting high-value industries in Nevada or exploiting vulnerabilities in rural South Dakota, cybercriminals are finding ways to infiltrate and exploit weaknesses. The financial impact varies widely, but the need for robust cybersecurity measures is universal.

As technology evolves, so do the methods of cybercriminals. From tech hubs to rural states, the findings emphasize the importance of cybersecurity awareness, investment, and preparedness across the nation.