Fraud Victims Face Significant Emotional Impact, New ONS Data Reveals

Large majority of fraud victims report lasting emotional effects, with three-quarters experiencing annoyance according to latest crime survey.

The harsh reality of fraud extends far beyond financial loss. New figures released by the Office for National Statistics paint a stark picture of the emotional toll these crimes exact on their victims.

According to data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales covering the year ending March 2025, seven in ten fraud victims – 71% – reported being emotionally affected in the majority of incidents they experienced.

View tweet from @ONS

The Human Cost Behind the Numbers

The statistics reveal a troubling pattern of psychological impact that persists long after the initial crime. Annoyance topped the list of emotional responses, affecting three-quarters of victims at 75%. But the damage runs deeper than mere irritation.

Nearly half of all fraud victims – 49% – reported feeling anger about their experience. The violation of trust and personal security leaves lasting marks that extend well beyond any monetary losses.

Shock and Vulnerability Follow

More concerning still, over a quarter of victims experienced shock at what had happened to them. At 27%, this portion of people left reeling from the realisation they had been deliberately targeted and deceived.

Perhaps most troubling of all, nearly one in four victims – 23% – reported a loss of confidence or feeling vulnerable following their fraud experience. This psychological impact can affect victims’ willingness to engage with legitimate financial services or online platforms in future.

The ONS data highlights how fraud operates as more than a financial crime. It represents a fundamental breach of trust that can leave people questioning their own judgement and feeling exposed to future attacks.

A Growing Challenge

These emotional impacts occur against a backdrop of increasingly sophisticated fraud techniques. From elaborate phone scams to convincing fake websites, criminals continue to find new ways to exploit people’s trust and good faith.

The survey data suggests that even when financial losses are recovered, the psychological scars of fraud can persist. Victims may find themselves second-guessing legitimate communications or avoiding online transactions they would previously have completed without hesitation.

Source: @ONS

Key Takeaways

• 71% of fraud victims report emotional impact from their experiences

• Annoyance affects 75% of victims, making it the most common emotional response

• Nearly half experience anger, while over a quarter feel shock and loss of confidence

What This Means for Kent Residents

Kent households should recognise that fraud protection involves more than just safeguarding finances – it’s about protecting emotional wellbeing too. Local residents who fall victim to fraud should consider seeking support not just for any financial losses, but for the psychological impact as well, with services available through Citizens Advice Kent and victim support organisations. Businesses across the county should also factor these emotional costs into their customer protection strategies, understanding that fraud victims may need additional reassurance and support when engaging with legitimate services in future.

Source: @ONS

Published: 26 March 2026

Source: @ONS on X. This article has been researched and rewritten with editorial balance by Kent Local News.