The FBI has issued a new warning about a scam that is tricking people by pretending to be the official FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Scammers are using fake websites and computer-made videos to make themselves look real.
Here’s what’s happening in simple terms:
- Scammers pretend to be FBI agents: They reach out through Facebook, Telegram, email, or phone and claim they can help you “recover lost money.” They often target people who were already victims of a scam.
- They send you a fake link: The link looks like the real IC3 website but isn’t. It might steal your personal information or install harmful software.
- They use realistic fake videos: These videos show what looks like real FBI officials—but they’re computer generated “deepfakes.” They try to convince you to use the fake website.
- The fake website collects your information: It asks for things like your name, phone number, email, and details about your scam. It even gives you a fake “reference number” to seem official.
How you can protect yourself:
- Only use the official IC3 website: www.ic3.gov
- Remember: the FBI will never contact you through social media or messaging apps.
- Be cautious of videos or messages that seem “too official.” Computer made videos can look very real.
- If something feels off, stop and double check.
- Never give personal or financial information to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
If you think you’ve seen one of these fake messages or websites, please let our cybersecurity team know right away.
