What the FBI is warning about: Scammers are spoofing real government and law enforcement numbers, threatening arrest, demanding wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency, and pressuring victims to act immediately.
How the scam works
Calls or texts claim unpaid tolls, court fines, or package problems. The caller insists on immediate payment or sensitive information and may provide fake case numbers to appear legitimate.
How to protect yourself
Do not answer unknown numbers when possible. Never share personal or banking information by phone. Hang up and independently verify by calling the official number listed on a government or company website. Use call blocking, enable two‑step verification on key accounts, and review bank statements for unusual activity.
What legitimate agencies will not do
They will not threaten arrest over the phone, demand payment by gift card or crypto, or ask for full Social Security numbers in unsolicited calls.
If you are targeted
Document the number, take screenshots of texts, and report incidents to your local authorities and to appropriate federal reporting portals. Warn relatives who may be at higher risk, especially older adults.