Government Impersonation

Scammers pose as IRS, Social Security, or other government officials to threaten or deceive victims.

Overview

Government impersonation scams involve criminals pretending to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare, or law enforcement. They use threats of arrest, deportation, or benefit suspension to frighten victims into making immediate payments or providing personal information.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Threats of arrest, deportation, or legal action
Demands for immediate payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
Claims that your Social Security number has been suspended
Caller ID shows a government agency number (often spoofed)
Requests for personal information to 'verify your identity'
Aggressive or threatening tone
Promises to resolve the issue if you pay immediately

How to Protect Yourself

Know that government agencies rarely call - they typically send letters
Never pay government debts with gift cards or cryptocurrency
Hang up and call the agency directly using a number from their official website
Don't trust caller ID - it can be spoofed
Never give your Social Security number to an unsolicited caller
Remember that the IRS will never threaten immediate arrest

What to Do If You're a Victim

1Hang up immediately
2Don't call back numbers left in voicemails
3Report IRS scams to the Treasury Inspector General
4Report Social Security scams to oig.ssa.gov
5Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
6If you paid, contact your bank or card issuer immediately

Common Targets

Recent immigrantsElderly individualsPeople with tax concernsThose unfamiliar with government processes

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Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be used as the sole basis for any decision. If you believe you are a victim of fraud, contact local law enforcement and the appropriate reporting agencies.