- Callers claim to be FBI, DEA or Secret Service agents, sometimes using real agents' names. Caller ID shows a real field office number, so calling it back can seem to confirm them. Some move to video calls with a background built to look like a federal office.
- Real agencies never demand payment by phone or text.
- Watch for requests to wire money, move savings, or pay by prepaid card, crypto or courier.
- Look for official-looking links that end in .com or are slightly misspelled instead of .gov.
- Hang up, then call the agency on a public number you look up yourself, not one the caller gave you. Ask for credentials and check them independently. Never send money or personal details to verify yourself.
- Stop all contact and tell your bank or card issuer right away. Report it to local police and at ic3.gov with screenshots and details. Send any video-call captures to tips.fbi.gov.
Useful?