FBI Alert: Scammers Posing as IC3 Employees to Revictimize Fraud Victims

The FBI has issued a stern warning about a sophisticated scam targeting victims of financial fraud. In this scheme, scammers impersonate employees of the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), luring individuals with false promises of recovering stolen funds. These criminals exploit the vulnerability and desperation of fraud victims, using clever tactics to gain trust and access sensitive financial information. Since December 2023, over 100 cases of this scam have been reported, with victims approached through various platforms, including emails, phone calls, social media, and online forums.

This alarming trend highlights the lengths to which scammers will go to deceive victims, revictimizing those already suffering financial losses. It is a stark reminder to remain cautious and informed when dealing with unsolicited offers of help, especially those claiming to come from trusted institutions like the FBI.

How the Scam Works

👾 Initial Contact: Victims are approached through various means—emails, phone calls, social media platforms, or forums.💬 False Promises: The scammers claim to have recovered lost funds or offer assistance in doing so, only to lure victims into another trap.

📱 Case Example:

• Fraudsters create fake female profiles on social media and infiltrate support groups for financial fraud victims.

• They recommend contacting "Jaime Quin," allegedly the "Chief Director of IC3," via Telegram.

• Once in touch, "Quin" pretends to have recovered the victim's money but uses this pretext to gather financial details and further exploit victims.

How to Protect Yourself 🛡️

1. Stay Alert: The IC3 will never contact victims directly through email, phone calls, or social media.

2. Avoid Sharing Sensitive Data: Never share personal or financial information with individuals you've only met online or over the phone.

3. No Payment Requests: The FBI will not ask for money or refer you to companies demanding payment to recover lost funds.

4. Be Skeptical: Scammers constantly change names and tactics. Remain vigilant about any unsolicited offers to recover money.

5. Report Suspicious Activity: File a report with the FBI IC3 at www.ic3.gov immediately.

   
   

Reporting Checklist 📝

When submitting a report, include:

• Information about the person or entity that contacted you.

• Communication methods (emails, websites, phone numbers).

• Details of any financial transactions (payment type, amount, receiving account).

• A full description of the interaction and any instructions you received.

🔗 Stay Informed For official FBI updates and tips, visit the FBI's official website. Always verify the source of communication, and remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.