A new report from the Central Bank of Aruba (CBA) shows that Arubans over 45 vulnerable to digital fraud , particularly when using digital payment systems. While digital payment fraud remains relatively rare on the island, the bank warns that increased digitalization also brings new risks.
The findings come from a 2024 consumer survey examining experiences with digital payment fraud. According to the report, about 88 percent of participants said they had not experienced digital fraud in the past 12 months, while just over 12 percent reported either an attempted scam or an actual fraud incident.
Although the overall level of digital fraud in Aruba remains limited, the CBA stresses that vigilance is still necessary as online payment systems continue to expand.
Older Residents Targeted More Often
The report highlights that older residents are more frequently targeted by digital fraud. Individuals aged 65 and older, along with people in the middle-age category, are more likely to become victims and are also more likely to be contacted multiple times by scammers.
According to the Central Bank of Aruba, this increased vulnerability may be linked to lower levels of digital experience and greater reliance on online communication channels.
Credit Cards Most Common Target
The most common method of digital fraud involves credit cards, which account for nearly half of reported cases. Debit cards follow as the second most common target.
Fraud involving bank transfers, digital wallets, or cryptocurrencies appears far less frequently, according to the survey.
Scammers typically contact victims through email or social media, often pretending to represent banks, companies, or even acquaintances in order to obtain personal information or payment details.
Financial Losses Usually Small
In many cases, the financial losses from digital fraud are relatively small. Nearly 40 percent of victims reported losing less than 100 Aruban florins.
However, larger losses do occur. Around one-third of victims reported losing more than 500 florins.
Most victims reported the incident to their bank. The report shows that 83 percent contacted their bank, but only 60 percent received full compensation. Meanwhile, more than 30 percent received no reimbursement at all.
Awareness Increasing but Security Still Lacking
The Central Bank of Aruba notes that public awareness of digital fraud risks is relatively high, with nearly three-quarters of respondents saying they are aware of the dangers.
Despite this awareness, many users still do not take sufficient security measures, such as regularly changing passwords or using two-factor authentication.
The CBA digital fraud report emphasizes that digital payments will continue to grow, making it essential for both consumers and financial institutions to remain cautious. The bank hopes the report will help increase awareness and strengthen protection for digital payment users in Aruba.
