The FBI’s latest numbers are sobering. In 2025, they logged over one million internet crime complaints with reported losses exceeding $20 billion. The average victim lost $20,699. Phishing remains the most common scam, and it’s getting harder to spot every day. For Suncoast residents, especially snowbirds juggling accounts in two states, the risk is real.
Mark Friedlander with the Insurance Information Institute will join ABC7 on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 5 p.m. to discuss personal cybercrime risks and solutions. One of the most practical takeaways: personal cyber insurance can be added directly to your existing homeowners policy. Coverage of $15,000 to $50,000 costs just $25 to $75 per year. Higher limits of $100,000 or more run about $100 to $400 annually.
That’s a small price for protection against identity theft, malware, online extortion, and fraudulent transfers. Before you call your agent, think about how much of your life is managed online. Banking, medical records, travel bookings, even your Ring doorbell camera. Has your cyber exposure changed in the last few years? It’s worth a conversation.
