The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Portland Division warned the public this week about a surge in scammers impersonating FBI agents and other government officials, demanding cash, gold, or cryptocurrency payments. The FBI stressed that federal agencies do not call or email individuals threatening arrest or requesting money. Scammers spoof caller ID information, making fraudulent calls appear legitimate. Recipients should hang up and report the call. Scammers use intimidation tactics, demanding secrecy and quick payment through cash, gold, prepaid cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency ATMs. In 2023, the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) recorded 14,190 victims, with losses exceeding $394 million. Portland Division alone saw over $1.7 million in losses. Older adults are primary targets, with those over 60 accounting for 58% of national losses, nearly $770 million.
FBI Warns of Rising Government Impersonation Scams Demanding Crypto
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