Imposter scams are increasingly common, in 2023 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) said there were over 330,000 reports of business impersonation scams and nearly 160,000 reports of government impersonation scams. Losses from these scams topped $1.1 billion, that’s more than three times what consumers reported in 2020.

Imposter scams typically start with a phone call, text message or email message posing as a legitimate company, a government agency, or a person you know and trust. They can use official-looking emails, websites, or phone numbers to deceive victims. The scammer most often tries to create a sense of urgency or fear to prompt you to take action quickly without thinking. Their intent is to steal your money and personal information which can lead to financial and identity theft.

How to Protect Yourself

Education is the best defense. Stay informed about common scams.

Be cautions of any type of communication that wants you to provide personal, financial, or sensitive information. Never respond to these requests and never share your confidential information with anyone. Any request for this type of information should be a huge red flag.

Be leary of unsolicited phone calls, text messages or email messages.

Never allow anyone to remotely access your computer.

Don’t answer calls from numbers you don’t know.

Beware of any communication that tries to instill a sense of urgency or panic.

Always take the time to verify the identity of the person contacting you. Legitimate businesses and government agencies will never contact you out of the blue asking for confidential information or pressuring you to act quickly. Even if they are posing as a friend or family member be suspicious. Reach out to the person directly at a number you know to be true.

Watch for communication that contains unusual grammar, poor spelling, or strange language. Carefully examine email addresses and URL’s. Scammers often change just one letter in an address that makes it slightly different from a legitimate address.

Don’t click on links or attachments which can direct you to malicious sites or infect your device with malware.

Always use secure payment methods, scammers often request payment via wire transfer, gift cards, debit cards tied directly to your bank account, P2P payment apps and cryptocurrency.