Japan fraud damages hit record highs as cities implement prevention measures

Fraudulent activities are reaching record levels in parts of Japan. In one prefecture, specialized fraud damages reached a record high of approximately 812 million yen in the first half of the year, an increase of over 51 million yen compared to the same period last year. The primary methods identified include investment scams via social media, romance scams, and impersonation of police officers.

In Kitakyushu, where fraudulent telephone scams resulted in approximately 4.4 billion yen in damages during 2025, local authorities have launched a subsidy program to prevent future crimes. The city is offering up to 10,000 yen to residents aged 65 and older to help cover the cost of landline telephones equipped with automatic recording and warning functions designed to deter scammers impersonating relatives or public officials.