Security News > 2022 > March > FBI: Govt officials impersonated in widespread extortion schemes
Scammers are impersonating government officials and law enforcement in active and rampant extortion schemes targeting Americans' money or personally identifiable information.
"The FBI is warning the public of ongoing widespread fraud schemes in which scammers impersonate law enforcement or government officials in attempts to extort money or steal personally identifiable information," the FBI warned.
Some are also asked to pay using cash, either by mail or via cryptocurrency ATMs. However, as the FBI says, government officials or law enforcement authorities will never reach out by phone to demand payments or to request personal/sensitive information.
The FBI added that you would only be contacted in person or by official letters following legitimate legal actions or investigations.
NO legitimate law enforcement or government official requests payment via prepaid cards or cryptocurrency ATM. Never give anyone personally-identifying information without verifying the person is who they say they are.
Today's PSA comes after the FBI warned in February that BEC scammers are impersonating CEOs in virtual meetings and are increasingly targeting US organizations and individuals.