Risk Level: Low
Criminals attempt to steal more money from people who are vulnerable and desperate for help
The scammers often disguise themselves as legitimate entities, such as law firms, consumer advocacy organizations or government agencies. The FBI recently warned that criminals were impersonating the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) in recovery scams, with fake FBI agents contacting victims by phone or email to say that IC3 has recovered their stolen funds or to offer them help in recovering their money.
People who have already lost money to scams are often identified, listed, and targeted again.
Recovery scammers may pose as law firms, advocacy groups, or government agencies to appear credible.
Any demand for upfront fees, rushed decisions, or personal data is a warning sign of another scam.
Ignore unsolicited offers.
Be alert to pressure tactics.
Watch for phony checks.
Beware of up-front fees.
Research supposed credentials.
Understand how the feds work.
Report the fraud.
Find support.