Scammers Posing as FBI IC3 Agents to Steal Your Financial Info

April 19, 2025 | Washington, D.C.

In a disturbing new wave of cybercrime, fraudsters are impersonating officials from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) in an attempt to steal personal and financial information from unsuspecting individuals across the United States.

According to a warning issued by the FBI, scammers are reaching out to victims through phone calls, emails, and even official-looking documents, claiming to be agents from the IC3. These impostors often use fake credentials, spoofed phone numbers, and forged FBI letterheads to appear legitimate.

Their tactics vary, but many involve threats of legal action, frozen bank accounts, or ongoing investigations unless the victim complies with demands to provide sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, or cryptocurrency transfers.

“The FBI does not call, email, or text people to demand money or sensitive personal information,” the agency said in a public advisory. “Any such communication is a red flag for a scam.”

Cybersecurity experts warn that these impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated. In some cases, scammers have even directed victims to fake FBI websites that mirror the real IC3 site, in an effort to build trust.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Verify First: If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from the FBI or IC3, do not respond. Contact the FBI directly through its official website or local field office.

• Do Not Share Personal Info: Never give out banking details, Social Security numbers, or passwords in response to unsolicited communications.

• Report the Scam: If you believe you have been targeted, report the incident immediately at www.ic3.gov.

The FBI continues to investigate these impersonation schemes and urges the public to remain vigilant. Anyone who receives such fraudulent contact should preserve all messages and report them to authorities.