A new law aimed at cracking down on identity fraud and impersonation schemes in New Hampshire was signed May 29 by Gov. Kelly Ayotte, expanding the state’s ability to prosecute increasingly common scams.

The measure, Senate Bill 622, was introduced by Sen. Dan Innis, R-Bradford, at the request of the New Hampshire Bankers Association and updates the state’s identity fraud statute to include cases in which criminals pose as businesses, banks, or government agencies to obtain personal or financial information. Supporters said the change reflects how fraud is evolving, with scammers using spoofed websites, phishing emails and texts, and fake customer service phone numbers to deceive victims.

The New Hampshire Bankers Association thanked both Innis and Ayotte for their support, saying the law closes a gap in existing statutes that previously focused mostly on identity theft involving individuals.

“Fraudsters are increasingly impersonating trusted banks and organizations to deceive individuals and businesses,” said Kristy Merrill, president and CEO of the association. “This law gives law enforcement clearer authority to go after these crimes and better protect Granite Staters.”

The law expands the definition of identity fraud to include “entities,” a term that covers financial institutions, corporations, nonprofits, and state and local government agencies. Backers say that change will make it easier for prosecutors to pursue cases involving institutional impersonation, including fraudulent websites and messages designed to steal login credentials or payment information.

The legislation also addresses a range of scams that have grown more widespread in recent years, including fraudulent bank communications, fake EZ Pass toll alerts, and spoofed phone numbers that appear to come from legitimate organizations.

The update comes as fraud losses continue to rise nationwide. Consumers reported losing $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, a 25% increase from the previous year, according to federal data, though actual losses are believed to be significantly higher due to underreporting.

Supporters say the law will strengthen protections for both consumers and businesses while helping deter large-scale impersonation schemes and reinforcing trust in financial institutions.