FBI Newark warns of new twist making old phone scam harder to spot
FBI Newark says victims in New Jersey have reported scammers posing as FBI, DEA and Secret Service agents, using real names and spoofing phone numbers.
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Scammers have been impersonating federal agents for years, calling victims and demanding money.
But now, the FBI is warning that new tactics are making the scams extremely difficult to spot.
“At least at this point, we’ve seen it enough to be concerned,” said Special Agent Stefanie Roddy. “I think we always try to get ahead of the threats.”
FBI Newark says victims in New Jersey have reported scammers posing as FBI, DEA and Secret Service agents, using real names and spoofing phone numbers.
When victims call those offices, they can confirm that the agent does work there.
The call seems legitimate, but it is not.
In one case, the fraudster even used an online virtual meeting.
“It has a legitimate-looking background with a government seal. It has an individual wearing a suit, and then the part where I think people really need to be wary is federal law enforcement will never ask you for money,” Roddy said.
The FBI says that if you get a call like this, hang up. Then, look up the official phone number for that agency and let them know you believe you may be the target of a scam.
