How To Spot Scams in Unexpected Messages

If you or a loved one have received an unexpected message from a computer pop-up, social media platform, dating site, text, email, or phone call from a stranger, and find yourself saying "YES" to any of the following, there's a chance you may have been targeted by a scam.

• Have you recently been approached about investing in cryptocurrency or gold features?

• Has someone contacted you claiming to be from a bank or government agency and asking for money or access to your accounts in order to resolve a supposed crime or security issue?

• Have you ever received a call or email from someone claiming to be tech support or a customer service representative and they've requested payment to help remove a virus or other issue from your computer or account?

• Has someone ever contacted you with a fake emergency involving a family member and requested money to help avoid further damage or harm?

• Have you connected with someone online who claims to be romantically interested in you, but has asked you to send them money, gift cards, or other items of value?

• Have you ever been asked to withdraw cash to purchase gold or silver bars for someone else?

• Has someone ever sent a person to your home or directed you to meet them in a public place to exchange money or other valuable items with someone you don't know?

• Have you been given instructions or a QR code to deposit cash into a cryptocurrency ATM or purchase gift cards?

If you answered "YES" to any of these questions, please go to www.ic3.gov for additional resources or to file a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). 

Persons aged 60 and older may call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833.372.8311 for assistance in filing with IC3.