Scammers stole $91.8 million from Kentuckians last year, LMPD says

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — After thieves stole nearly $92 million from Kentuckians last year, the Louisville Metro Police Department says scams are "prevalent" and "on the rise" in the area.

So far this year, LMPD has investigated 461 reports of scams. While officers work hard to recover stolen money, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

"Everyone is targeted," Erin Ray, Chase Bank community manager, said. "You can be a senior, a college student, a parent, a mom. Everyone is targeted."

From fake rental homes to Riverlink tolls, scammers are stepping up their game.

"Scam artists use urgency," Ray said. "People fall into it because we're so used to moving very fast."

They're using technology, such as AI, to convince people to open their wallets.

"AI makes that really believable because they can generate voices," Sgt. Scott Shafer, with LMPD's Financial Crimes Unit, said.

Since the start of 2026, Shafer said LMPD has seen 1,200 reports of fraud. However, officers have only been able to investigate roughly a third of those cases because, he said, scammers are out of state.

"It makes it very difficult when your victim is here but the suspect could be anywhere," said Maj. Jill Bates, with LMPD's Major Crimes Division.

WDRB asked Chase Bank how likely it is that every scam victim will get their money back.

"It's never 100% guaranteed," Ray said. "That's the unfortunate part. That's another reason being educated, aware and alert helps you pay attention to those signs."

LMPD said the most common scams involve romance or impersonation. Thieves call or email victims and pretend to be a loved one or law enforcement.

"The police will not ask you for money," Bates said. "They will not have you deliver gift cards."

Officials suggest creating a "family password." It helps verify people's identities if someone claims to be a relative and asks for money.

Ray recommends double-checking the source. She said it's smart to avoid clicking any suspicious links in emails or texts. Plus, never share personal information, such as passwords or financial details, with unexpected callers.

"Pause," Ray said. "Don't respond right away. Take a beat."

If you think you've been targeted, act quickly. Call your bank, file a police report and monitor your accounts.

In Louisville, you can call in tips to LMPD at (502) 574-LMPD (5673). Tips can also be submitted anonymously online through the department's Crime Tip Portal by clicking here.