The FBI warns of a nationwide phone scam where fraudsters pose as banks, police, or government officials. They use fear tactics to pressure victims into sending money or installing malware. These scammers impersonate real authorities to gain trust and exploit their targets. The FBI urges people to hang up immediately, avoid engagement, and never share personal information.
Scammers pretend to be the police and banks
Fraudsters are using advanced “spoof” technology to make their calls appear legit. They pretend to be banks, police departments, or even federal agencies like US Customs and Border Protection.
Once you pick up, they pressure you into sending money. They claim you owe fees or have legal trouble. Some even try to trick you into installing malware on your phone. If you fall for it, your private information could be stolen in seconds!
Scammers are calling local residents
Long Island authorities report at least three cases where scammers posed as Suffolk County Police officers. Victims were told they had arrest warrants and had to send money immediately.
FBI’s advice: Hang up immediately!
Never share personal details over the phone. Don’t press any buttons. Just end the call right away! If you think a scammer targeted you, contact the real agency using a verified number.
It’s not just phone calls—scammers are now targeting Americans with fake toll payment texts! These messages claim you owe money for unpaid road tolls.
Scammers send texts pretending to be from E-ZPass or state road agencies. They hope you’ll panic and click their shady links. But the truth is, they’re just phishing for your financial info.
Many of these texts go to people who don’t even own a car! Others come from random states the victim has never driven through. One recipient got a toll fine notice from Georgia—despite never setting foot there!
Watch out for silly mistakes
These fraudsters aren’t always slick. One scam text included three emojis—hardly something a real government agency would do!
FTC’s three golden rules to stay safe
- Never click links in suspicious texts.
- Verify the sender—call the agency directly using a real number.
- Report and delete fake messages. Use your phone’s “report junk” feature or forward the text to 7726 (SPAM).
Scammers are getting smarter, but you can stay ahead of them. If something feels off, trust your instincts. Hang up, delete, and report! Don’t let these fraudsters win.
