FBI Warns of Sophisticated New Phone and Text Scams Targeting Americans – Hang Up or Delete Immediately

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The FBI is alerting smartphone users about a new wave of scam calls and texts designed to steal personal information and money.

Scammers are using advanced tactics, including spoofed caller IDs and fake government agency claims, to trick victims into handing over their funds.

Key Facts:

  • The FBI warns that scammers are using caller ID spoofing to impersonate banks, law enforcement, and government agencies.
  • Victims are pressured into transferring money or installing malware on their phones.
  • Authorities in New York have reported incidents where scammers posed as local police and demanded payments for fake arrest warrants.
  • A separate scam involves fraudulent text messages claiming recipients owe money for unpaid tolls.
  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that these text scams aim to steal both money and personal data.

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The Rest of The Story:

Scammers have taken identity fraud to a new level by leveraging caller ID spoofing to pose as legitimate institutions.

The FBI reports that criminals are impersonating banks, law enforcement agencies, and even U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Their goal is to scare victims into sending money or installing malware, which then compromises their personal data.

Local officials in Suffolk County, New York, recently identified cases where residents received calls from scammers claiming to be police officers.

The victims were told they had outstanding warrants and needed to pay immediately.

In addition to fraudulent calls, scammers are also targeting Americans with fake text messages about unpaid tolls.

These texts, which often include links to phishing websites, attempt to trick recipients into providing banking or credit card details.

However, many of the messages are poorly executed, often targeting people who don’t even own a car or have never traveled in the states referenced.

Commentary:

Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder for people to tell the difference between real and fake messages.

Caller ID spoofing makes these scams even more convincing, as victims see the name of a legitimate institution on their screen.

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This is a dangerous development, as people naturally trust what appears to be official communication.

The pressure tactics used in these scams are also alarming.

Scammers rely on fear and urgency to push their targets into making snap decisions.

Whether it’s a fake police officer demanding bail money or a fraudulent text claiming an overdue toll fee, the goal is always the same—get the victim to act before they have time to think.

People must be extremely cautious when dealing with unexpected calls or messages.

If someone claims to be from a government agency or financial institution, the best course of action is to hang up and contact the organization directly using a verified phone number.

Never click on links in unsolicited messages, and never send money based on a phone call alone.

These scams thrive because they exploit trust and fear.

By staying vigilant and skeptical, Americans can protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.

The Bottom Line:

Scammers are using advanced technology and aggressive tactics to steal money and personal data.

If you receive an unsolicited call or text demanding payment or personal information, do not engage—hang up or delete the message.

Always verify claims through official channels before taking any action.

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