Protecting Your Money Online: What You Need to Know

Worried about keeping your money safe online? You're not alone. 

A new study shows why stronger fraud protection matters now more than ever.

More people are banking and investing online these days. But with convenience comes risk. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans (26%) have been victims of financial fraud. Almost half (46%) have either experienced it themselves or know someone who has, according to research from Edward Jones and Morning Consult.

Confidence vs. Preparedness

Here’s what the study found: 77% of Americans worry about fraud and identity theft when managing money online. Yet only 9% have talked to a financial professional about these risks. That’s a big gap between awareness and action. And while 77% feel confident spotting scams, only 63% feel ready to handle them.

Working with a financial advisor can make a difference. Among those who do, 85% feel confident spotting scams and 78% feel prepared to deal with them.

Technology and Trust: Different Generations, Different Views

Attitudes about technology’s role in financial security differ by generation:

• Only one third of Baby Boomers say technology is very useful for managing their money safely.
• Compare that to 49% of Millennials and 47% of Gen Z, who see tech as a useful tool for protecting their finances.

These differences show how comfort with digital tools—and perceptions of risk—vary by age. Older adults can be especially vulnerable to fraud. They often have more wealth, may be less familiar with new technology, and sometimes face cognitive challenges—all of which can make them targets for financial exploitation.

How a Financial Advisor Can Help

Working with a trusted financial advisor isn’t just about growing your wealth—it’s about protecting it. With trillions of dollars expected to change hands in the Great Wealth Transfer over the next two decades, an advisor can help keep your money safe by: 

• Informing you about common fraud risks and warning signs so you can spot scams early.
• Setting up secure account practices and authentication methods to keep fraudsters out – consider adding a trusted contact to your account.
• Reviewing your digital footprint and habits to strengthen your online protection.
• Creating a personalized response plan so you know exactly what to do if fraud happens. 

Having a financial advisor by your side through every stage of life can help you feel confident and protected as your financial needs evolve. If you haven’t already, consider connecting with a financial advisor to help strengthen your defenses against fraud. The right guidance can help you stay confident, prepared, and secure in today’s digital world.

Methodology

Edward Jones, in partnership with Morning Consult, conducted a nationwide online survey (fielded between Sept. 12-14, 2025) among a sample of 2,188 U.S. adults. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of +/-2 percentage points.