Government imposter scams top the list of reported frauds
Scammers call pretending to be government agencies like the IRS or Social Security Administration. They create fear or promise benefits to trick you into sending money or revealing personal information.
How it works
You receive a phone call from someone claiming to be a government official. The caller uses a fake caller ID to look legitimate and threatens you with arrest or loss of benefits unless you act immediately, or promises a grant or prize. They demand payment via gift card or wire transfer, or ask for your Social Security number. By the time you think to verify the call, they have your money or information.
Red flags to watch for
- Caller demands immediate payment or threatens arrest
- They ask for gift card PINs or wire transfer details
- Caller ID shows a real government agency number (can be faked)
- Unsolicited offer of a grant, benefit, or prize
- Pressure to act now without time to verify
What to do
Do not pay with a gift card or wire transfer if anyone demands it by phone. Real government agencies do not call to threaten you or demand money. Hang up and call the agency directly using the number on its official website to verify whether they are trying to reach you. Report the call to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.
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Source: FTC. Scam Sentinel summarizes official guidance in plain language; it is a decision aid, not a guarantee.