Overview
Government impersonation scams involve criminals posing as officials from agencies like the IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare, FBI, DEA, or local law enforcement. They use threats of arrest, benefit suspension, or legal action to intimidate victims into making immediate payments or sharing sensitive personal information. These scams are particularly effective against seniors and immigrants who may be less familiar with how government agencies actually communicate.
How This Scam Works
Callers claim to be from the Social Security Administration, stating your SSN has been linked to criminal activity and will be suspended unless you verify your identity.
Fake law enforcement officials threaten arrest for unpaid fines, missed jury duty, or alleged crimes, demanding immediate payment.
Scammers impersonating immigration officials threaten deportation or visa revocation unless fees are paid immediately.
Fake emails and letters mimic official government correspondence, complete with agency logos and case numbers.
Warning Signs
Real Scam Examples
These are examples of messages used in this type of scam.
This is Officer Williams from the Social Security Administration. Your Social Security number has been connected to suspicious activity and will be suspended immediately. To resolve this matter, you need to verify your identity and pay a $500 reactivation fee. We accept payment through Target or Walmart gift cards.
This is Sergeant Johnson from the county sheriff's office. A warrant has been issued for your arrest due to failure to appear for jury duty. You can resolve this by paying the $750 fine immediately. If you do not pay today, officers will be sent to your home.
How to Protect Yourself
1Know how government agencies contact you
The SSA, IRS, and other federal agencies primarily communicate by mail. They do not call to demand immediate payment, threaten arrest, or ask for payment by gift card.
2Your SSN cannot be suspended
No government agency can suspend your Social Security number. This is not a real thing. Any call claiming otherwise is a scam.
3Hang up and call the agency directly
If you receive a suspicious call from a government agency, hang up and call the agency using the number from their official website.
4Report government impersonation scams
Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, the relevant agency's Office of Inspector General, and your local police department.
Frequently Asked Questions
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