An imposter scam is when someone pretends to be a trusted figure—such as a government official, business, or even a relative—to trick individuals into giving away money or personal information.usa+2

Common Signs of an Imposter Scam

• Unsolicited contact via phone, email, text, or even in-person, often using technology to make it look like the message or call is from a legitimate source.texasattorneygeneral+3
• Requests for sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, account details, passwords, or payments—especially via unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers.usa+1
• High-pressure tactics, such as threats, urgent requests, or claims of emergencies that require immediate action.fincen+1
• Promises of prizes, job offers, loans, or other benefits in exchange for payment upfront or personal data.texasattorneygeneral
• Claims to be from well-known organizations or loved ones, sometimes even using caller ID spoofing or hacked email/social media accounts to seem legitimate.scamwatch

How to Protect Yourself

• Independently verify any contact, especially if you did not initiate it, by using contact information from official websites, not those provided in suspicious messages.usa+1
• Never rush to provide personal details or make payments under pressure.fincen+1
• Be skeptical of urgent requests, especially when accompanied by emotional stories or threats.consumer.ftc+1

Identifying these signs early can help avoid falling victim to imposter scams.scamwatch+2

Add to follow-up

Check sources

 
1. https://www.usa.gov/imposter-scams
 
2. https://www.fincen.gov/resources/scams
 
3. https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/common-scams
 
4. https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/spoofing-and-phishing
 
5. https://www.chase.com/digital/resources/privacy-security/security/how-to-spot-scams
 
6. https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/types-of-scams/impersonation-scams
 
7. https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/pass-it-on/impersonator-scams
 
8. https://consumer.gov/scams-identity-theft/if-you-were-scammed
 
9. https://vsafe.gov/resources/imposters/

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