The FBI has issued a fresh warning about a dangerous rise in phone scams across the country. Criminals are calling people, pretending to be federal agents, and demanding money.
These scams have been increasing, with more victims losing money to fake phone calls.
Scammers Pretend to Be Federal Agents
The fraudsters use fake caller IDs to make it seem like they’re calling from the FBI, ATF, or U.S. Marshals Service. They often threaten arrest or legal trouble unless the victim pays.
The FBI made it clear:
They never demand payments, ask for personal information, or threaten people over the phone.
The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) also confirmed scammers have been using their name to pressure victims. Some people were told to buy Apple gift cards to remove a supposed “red flag” from their account. After buying the cards, victims were asked to share the codes over the phone.
The ATF stressed that they never request gift cards, money transfers, or personal banking details over the phone. They also do not handle Social Security issues or inheritance claims by phone.
U.S. Marshals Targeted by Scammers
The U.S. Marshals Service reported similar scams. Fraudsters are using real names of Marshals to appear credible. They tell victims they missed jury duty or owe money for legal matters.
Officials confirmed the Marshals never settle legal issues or request payments over the phone.
Scammers Use Fear and Pressure
The FBI explained how these criminals use fear to manipulate victims. They sound aggressive, urge secrecy, and refuse to talk to anyone other than the target.
Phone scams come in different forms. Some involve fake jury duty calls. Others involve claims of fraud on your Apple ID account. In every case, the scammers demand money and threaten legal consequences.
Local police departments, including New York State Police, have reported more cases of phone scams. Many of these calls appear to come from official government numbers, making them seem real.
How to Protect Yourself
The FBI, ATF, and U.S. Marshals urge the public to stay alert:
✅ Hang up if you get a suspicious call
✅ Never send money, gift cards, or personal information to unknown callers
✅ Report scams to the FBI at ic3.gov
✅ You can also call the ATF tip line at 1-888-ATF-TIPS
✅ Contact your local police if you believe you’ve been targeted
Remember: Real federal agents never ask for money, gift cards, or private details over the phone. They also never threaten legal action this way.
Stay cautious. If in doubt, hang up and verify the call through official channels.
About The Author
If I don’t know the number or where the call is coming from I don’t answer, I delete and block!