Scam Alert: Government & Tech Support Impersonation

Scammers are posing as the FBI, other government agencies, or tech support to scare victims into handing over money.

Common Scams to Watch For

Government or Tech Support Impersonation: Scammers claim your computer or account is compromised and use intimidating warnings or screen lockups to panic you.

 “The Phantom Hacker” Scam: Fraudsters claim your accounts were hacked and tell you to “protect” your money by withdrawing cash or buying gold or silver.

 Courier Cash Pickup: After convincing victims to withdraw cash or buy precious metals, scammers send a courier to pick it up from your home.

Know the Truth

This is not a legitimate FBI or law enforcement action. Real law enforcement will never lock your computer, demand cash or precious metals, or send someone to your home to collect money.

Red Flags

• Pop-ups claiming your computer is locked by the FBI or another agency
• Instructions to withdraw cash or buy gold/silver
• An unexpected courier coming to your home
• Being told not to talk to anyone about it

What to Do

• Hang up immediately if you receive an unsolicited call claiming to be law enforcement
• Do not follow financial instructions
• Contact your bank using official numbers
• Report scams to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov